6 tips to consider if your home could use some updating

We all love our homes, but sometimes they can start to feel a little… stale. Maybe the décor is reflecting a bygone era, or perhaps the layout just isn’t working for your current lifestyle. If you’re beginning to feel like your home isn’t quite reflecting your current taste and needs, it may be time to consider some updates.

But where do you even begin? It can be overwhelming to think about tackling a home renovation. Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Here are 6 key areas to consider when deciding if your home could use some updating.

1. Does your kitchen feel outdated?

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and it’s also one of the most common areas for renovation. Ask yourself:

Are the cabinets worn or outdated?
Is the worktop cracked or stained?
Does the appliance style clash with your overall aesthetic?
Is the layout inefficient for your cooking and entertaining needs?

If you answered yes to any of these, a kitchen update might be in order. This could range from a simple refresh of paint and hardware to a full-blown remodel.

2. Is your bathroom lacking functionality and style?

Similar to the kitchen, the bathroom is another area where updating can significantly improve both aesthetics and functionality. Consider:

Is the shower or bath outdated?
Are the fixtures old and inefficient?
Is the vanity unit cramped or lacking storage?
Is the overall design feeling dated or cramped?

A bathroom remodel can be a great investment, boosting your home’s value and improving your daily routine.

3. Is your flooring showing its age?

Flooring is one of the first things people notice when they enter a home. If your floors are worn, stained or just plain out of style, it can drag down the overall look and feel of your space. It may be time to rip out any old carpeting and replace it with new, or consider a completely different flooring solution.

Are the carpets faded or stained?
Are the hardwood floors scratched and worn?
Are the stone tiles chipped or outdated?

New flooring can completely transform a room, giving it a fresh and modern look.

4. Is your colour scheme tired or mismatched?

A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest, quickest and most affordable ways to update a home.

Are the walls a hue you no longer love?
Do the rooms feel dark or dingy?
Are the colours clashing or creating an unbalanced feel?

A simple paint refresh can brighten up a space, create a more cohesive look and instantly update the overall vibe.

5. Are your windows and doors dragging down curb appeal?

The exterior of your home is the first impression it makes to visitors and passers-by.

Are your windows draughty or inefficient?
Are the doors outdated or difficult to operate?
Are the door and window frames beginning to show their age?

Updating windows and doors can improve energy efficiency, enhance your home’s curb appeal and increase security.

6. Does your home’s layout feel inflexible or obsolete?

Sometimes, the issue isn’t about individual elements but the overall flow of the space.

Are there rooms you never use or that don’t serve a purpose?
Is the layout making it difficult to navigate or entertain?
Does the home feel closed off or compartmentalised?

If your home’s layout is impractical or no longer suits your lifestyle, consider some structural changes to improve functionality and flow. This could involve knocking down walls, adding a room or reconfiguring existing spaces.

Perhaps, you’ve found that you’re in the situation where it’s not worth putting in time and money to update your current property. In this case, it may be a wiser choice to consider moving to a new and better property. It may be useful to work with a real estate agent who can do the hard work for you and show you a selection of more suitable homes. Bear in mind that moving can be difficult and stressful. There’s huge upheaval and legal paperwork that you’ll need to sift through and complete such as a real estate deed.

Taking the next step

These are just some of the starting points to consider when deciding whether your home needs updating. If you find yourself nodding along to several of these points, it may be time to prioritise some home improvement projects. Remember to start small if you’re overwhelmed and focus on the areas that will have the biggest impact on your daily life and enjoyment of your home. Happy updating!

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The simplest home updates to maximise your interior

Revamping your home’s interior is well worth the investment. Not only will you find more joy and comfort in your home, but you will also be more encouraged to invite guests over and use your space more.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of relaxation and pride that comes from returning to a beautifully revamped home after a long day at work.

Revamping your décor has many benefits, so here are some simple updates to maximise your interior.

Add indoor plants

Bringing nature into your home is a great way to make the space feel fresher and more inviting. If you’ve visited a friend’s home and instantly felt relaxed, it may be because they have plants and flowers dotted around the home. Not only are houseplants and fresh flowers ideal for making your home smell great, but they bring a touch of nature and life to your home.

Plants work well in any interior. Greenery can add much needed colour to an all-white, minimalist home. You could add real plants or these faux floor plants to upgrade your interior with a touch of nature.

Create a feature wall

If you don’t want to paint your entire home, you can quickly upgrade any space by adding a feature wall.

Feature walls are ideal if you don’t necessarily want to be surrounded by colour but want to add some interest. If you want to keep your home neutral but add a focal point, a feature wall is great at doing.

You can apply paper or fresh paint to change one particular wall. Although it’s a simple and basic update, you’ll gain amazing results.

Repaint

Speaking of painting, if you have the time and desire, you could repaint your entire home. Whether you want to repaint the walls or the furniture, repainting is a brilliant technique for refreshing your home.

Even if you choose to paint using the same or similar colours, it will transform your home and give it an uplift.

Install new lighting

The lighting you choose for your home can completely alter the mood of your interior. For instance, if you like a relaxed vibe in your lounge, choose table or standard lamps with warm, Edison filament bulbs. You’ll want completely different lighting in your kitchen and other work areas of your home, so opt for overhead and under-counter task lighting with bright LED bulbs that mimic daylight.

Installing different bulbs can help you achieve the different atmospheres that you desire. Also consider investing in new lampshades, as these will make a huge difference to a space. A new glass or crystal chandelier can be a small yet grand feature for your interior. It can transform a basic bedroom or living room into a luxury space.

Update the doors and windows

If your home’s doors and windows don’t maximise your interior design, update them. If you paint the walls, add new furniture, and change the layout yet keep the same doors, the space won’t feel finished.

Your old doors may not align with the interior look you’re seeking. However, you don’t necessarily need to invest in new ones. Stripping down, sanding and repainting the existing doors will give them an entirely new look.

Meanwhile, updating the windows may be necessary if they’re old and ill-fitting. If they’re single-glazed or damaged, they could be making your home cold due to draughts and poor insulation. When this happens, you’ll probably be overpaying on your energy bill. Investing in new or updated windows and doors will save you money in the long run and also upgrade your home’s appearance.

Add more art

A great design tip to upgrade your home’s potential is to consider adding more art. Blank walls and boring spaces can be instantly transformed by adding a picture or two.

If you aren’t into art, you could find pieces that align with your colour scheme. The art doesn’t necessarily need to speak to you personally, it’s adding a layer of interest that’s important. It needs to work in harmony with the other décor, of course, but if it does so, it can instantly make a room feel more homely.

Personal touches

Nothing is more unique than personal touches. You could hang artworks that your children have created, family and holiday photos or homemade decorations.

These simple, one-of-a-kind touches can transform your home and make it feel more personal. They also make great conversation starters when you host guests.

Your home won’t replicate anyone else’s when you feature personal touches.

Install lighter window coverings

If you aren’t getting as much light into your home as desired, your interior will benefit from new, lighter window coverings.

Blocking the natural light with dark blinds or heavy curtains doesn’t give your home the best look. When you install lighter-coloured window coverings, they let as much light pass through as possible.

If the natural lighting is still restricted, remove the window coverings altogether or hang a light, gauzy fabric. Of course, you may need them in your bedroom and bathroom for privacy and sleep. However, removing them from your living space may be best to achieve maximum light.

Use colour wisely

While you may love colour, don’t drown your home in it. If it works for you, that’s fine. However, your interior may feel overbearing when you add too much colour.

In most cases, it’s best to choose a colour scheme. Choose a palette that helps you feel relaxed and calm, as you don’t want to feel stressed or overstimulated while relaxing at home. Soft pastels, light neutrals and gentle greens are best associated with calmness.

When you choose a soft colour palette, it can help to create a timeless look and feel. Plus, it allows you to add flashes of vibrant décor elsewhere in the home without crowding your space.

Declutter

Decluttering isn’t necessarily a new feature like the other recommendations, but it will certainly update your home.

Too much clutter creates a stressful and chaotic environment. When everything is clear and organised, you’ll likely feel calmer at home and in mind. Decluttering is a fantastic way to organise your home and get it in tip-top condition. If you find your home difficult to manage, with chores overwhelming your to-do list, you may find things much easier when you have less stuff.

The best way to declutter is to start with one room and one cupboard at a time. You don’t need to completely declutter in a single day. Spreading it over several days or weeks may encourage you to get rid of more. When you start small and slowly work your way around your home, the task will feel a lot less strenuous and overwhelming, and it should encourage you to push through until you reach that final room, cupboard or shelf.

Don’t panic about getting rid of your stuff. You can pass it on to its new good home – a friend or a charity shop.

More mirrors

Mirrors are a great feature to enhance the brightness throughout your home. They reflect and bounce light around your spaces, helping rooms feel airer and lighter. Plus, they make great statement pieces if you want to add more quirk to your interior.

Adding mirrors to every room and mirrored objects throughout your home is a simple yet effective way to upgrade your home.

Dress your windowsills

Many homeowners forget to dress their windowsills. Even if you’re a minimalist, dressing your windowsills can upgrade the look of your interior.

If you want a luxury interior, add decorative items to the windowsills to add more personality. We don’t recommend using them as storage, as this will make the home look and feel cluttered.

When you add interior accessories to your windowsills, they’ll feel more refined and well-kept. If you want to add personality and fun to your interior, the windowsills are a great place to add books, candles or houseplants.

Update your soft furnishings

If your soft furnishings are looking a little tired and worn, you may want to consider updating them. Bed linen, towels, cushions and throws can benefit from updates every so often. You don’t need to spend a fortune on these pieces, and they’re quick to upgrade, giving you all the more reason to update them.

If you add new bedding, refresh the cushions and install new lighter curtains, you could quickly transform the entire look of your bedroom. Softer and fresher soft furnishings are an easy way to revamp your home without spending much time or money.

Work on tired-looking furniture

Old-looking furniture needs to be renovated if you want to maintain an impressive interior. While old yet beautiful furnishings add personality, worn pieces do not.

You don’t necessarily need to buy new furniture. Instead, you can revamp and upcycle your existing pieces.

For example, you may have an old dresser that hasn’t had any love for decades. If so, you could revamp it by sanding, painting and installing new hardware. You’d be surprised at the difference a quick furniture update can make.

Update the hardware

Speaking of hardware, it’s a simple update you can do to elevate your interior.

Installing new door handles, cupboard handles and fixings can transform the look of your space. Along with a furniture update and a paint refresh, you could be on your way to achieving a much improved home with a few quick and simple updates.

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Tidying up after decorating: An essential guide

Are you in the mood for a little home makeover? Spicing up your living space with a fresh coat of paint, a new piece of furniture or a row of eye-catching curtain lights can be thrilling. But we all agree, there’s a not-so-fun side to every home décor project: cleaning up after completion. Trust me, tidying up your workspace can save you hours of unnecessary stress and also add to the final appeal of your décor effort.

The importance of a post-decorating clean-up

Home décor projects come with an exciting buzz as you get to personalise your space. But these tasks also conjure clusters of misplaced items and materials scattered around. This disorder can diminish the ultimate beauty you anticipated. Underneath that veil of debris could hide your newly polished, well-designed oasis.

Post-decorating clean-up makes the environment safe by removing potentially harmful materials for those living in the house, especially young children and pets. Copious amounts of dust can cause respiratory irritations or spark off allergies. Leftover paint cans, screws or nails left lying around can be hazardous too.

Just as a chef cleans within and after cooking to keep food sanitary, so does a craftsman preserve their work area. A clean space enhances concentration, paving the way for more productivity, for more insights on this click here.

Finally, cleaning up frequently saves time, since it is easier to sort things out intermittently rather than ploughing through days’ worth of mess at once.

Types of decorating mess

A diverse range of mess arises from home décor projects, depending on the complexity or the type undertaken. Some common types include dust and debris, leftover materials, packaging waste and misplaced items.

Dust and debris can trigger allergies, make surfaces slippery, or simply bring down your remodelling effort. LM comprises unused items such as paints, screws, nails, fabrics, wallpapers etc. These often get overlooked but can be re-purposed in future projects.

PW often include cardboard boxes, plastic wrappings, foam pieces etc., which, if not picked up immediately, prove difficult to manage later. Misplaced items can range from furniture moved to accommodate the décor project or personal belongings accidentally strewn around in the melee.

Understanding what mess you’ll face is halfway through efficient clean-up, as different types require different treatment.

Elements of a successful clean-up

The foundation of successful clean-up rests on three factors: time management, proper tools and determination. A good strategy divides your clean-up task into manageable portions, so it doesn’t become overwhelming.

Arming yourself with the right tools is crucial. Gloves keep hands safe from sharp objects and harmful substances, while dust masks protect your respiratory system. Vacuum cleaners, brooms, mops and cleaning agents ensure a thorough cleaning job.

However, these elements are ineffective without the will to see it through. It’s hard not to feel bogged down looking at the mess created by home decorating activities. But remember, a clean workspace is worth every bit of that determination and hard work.

The last element is TLC – tender loving care! Your newly decorated space deserves delicate handling for its longevity and aesthetics.

Organising leftover materials

Home décor projects usually mean dealing with many leftover materials. Smart LM management can save you money for future tasks by reutilising them instead of purchasing new ones.

Create a well-labelled storage system to stack LMs. This way you not only reduce clutter but also know exactly where to look for a particular product when you need it again. Remember to store liquids such as paint in safe, temperature-regulated areas to prevent spoilage.

Larger leftover pieces such as wooden panels or tiles may prove difficult to store. In such cases, try reselling them online or to local workshops and builders who might find value in them.

Go digital for planning and design related leftovers. Whether it’s paint swatches or fabric samples, digitise them for quick referencing sans clutter.

Proper disposal techniques

We’ve mentioned reusing and storing leftover materials, but what about those that are beyond salvage? Proper disposal techniques are critical in managing these loads without harming the environment.

Begin by sorting your waste into bins: one for recyclable materials such as paper, plastic or certain types of metal and a separate one for non-recyclable items. Be particularly careful when disposing paints or chemical solvents, as they pose environmental hazards when improperly discarded.

Contact your local waste disposal unit or hire professionals who can take care of appropriate waste segregation and disposal. You can also consider donating functioning items that you no longer need post-decoration to local charities or shelters.

Remember, your personal choice can make a strong impact on global sustainability initiatives. So always dispose wisely!

Recycling decorative materials

As a décor enthusiast, you will often find leftover decorative items such as old ornaments, finished candles and decorative papers. Instead of leaving them gathering dust, consider recycling these components. This is not only an environmentally friendly measure but can also boost creativity in future projects.

In definitive terms, recycling refers to the process of converting waste materials into new products (RWP). Just as several sectors embrace the RWP concept, home décor isn’t left out. The goal is to enforce responsible use of resources, reduce pollution and embody sustainable living.

For example, you could melt down old candles and pour them into newly purchased moulds to create fresh candles. Similarly, old papers or fabrics can be crafted into custom-made gift wraps or bookmarks. You have endless possibilities when it comes to upcycling. Follow these steps:

Mentally categorise all materials and identify what’s recyclable.
Conceptualise ideas on how you can reuse decorative items in future projects.
Finally, put your ingenuity into motion and transform your ideas into reality.

Deep cleaning post-decorating

Post-decoration clean-up doesn’t stop at the superficial level of organising and sorting; deep cleaning is essential too. This involves extensive cleaning that targets hidden dirt and stubborn stains that may have formed during your decorating session.

Tips for successful deep-cleaning

Vacuuming: Vacuum carpets, furnishings and undisturbed corners where dust would likely aggregate.
Cleaning Walls: For otherwise indelible stains on walls caused by paints or markers, use diluted vinegar or a magic eraser.
Upholstery: Clean the chairs and sofa where dust may reside using upholstery cleaner or steam washing.
Dusting: Dust off tops of bookshelves, window blinds and other less attended parts of the home.

This comprehensive service known as deep cleaning every crevice goes beyond usual house chores. Though time-consuming, the satisfaction derived from a pristine living space more than compensates for the effort.

Storing unused decorating items

Over time, you may end up accumulating a collection of decorating tools that aren’t currently in use. Properly storing these items not only frees up your space but also maintains their quality. Organized Storage Systems (OSS) is crucial in achieving this.

Create an OSS:

Sort items by type for easy identification.
Label storage boxes and containers properly.
Wrap delicate items in bubble wrap or old newspapers before storage to prevent scratch or damage.

With an OSS in place, you can easily access needed items without creating a mess – saving time and maintaining order in your home space.

Strategies for minimalist clean-up

Pursuing minimalism allows you to focus only on what’s essential, reducing clean-up stress. Here are some minimalist approaches that could make post-decorating clean-up much simpler:

Think before you buy: Avoid purchasing décor items impulsively. Only buy what is needed; this reduces surplus materials to sort out later.
Incorporate multipurpose designs: This includes furniture with built-in storage or wall art that doubles as shelves.
Donate items not used frequently: If you haven’t used it in a year, you probably don’t need it. Consider donating such items to reduce clutter.

These strategies can steer you towards a more streamlined, hassle-free clean-up procedure post home-decorating.

Tips for maintaining order

The state of your post-decorating space is a reflection of the work done. By effectively maintaining order, your home will radiate that exciting, fresh vibe every time. Here are some tips for holding onto this orderliness:

Carry out regular checks: Devote a few minutes each day to walk around the house, checking for clutter or misplaced items.
Ingrain orderliness as a habit: The more regularly you do it, the more natural it becomes.
Involve other family members or occupants: Cooperation from all residents helps maintain equilibrium in the household.

Essentially, these routine habits help keep your living quarters clean and orderly, making subsequent decorating tasks much simpler.

The Final Touch

Post-decorating clean-up isn’t just about tidying up; it’s an integral part of the redesigning process that reflects the value of your efforts. This guide equips you with practical strategies to go beyond ordinary cleaning. Remember, what makes a home beautiful isn’t just its décor, but also its cleanliness and orderliness. Now take these insights and make your next decorating endeavour a crowning success!

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How to improve your home’s ambiance without spending a fortune

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to break the bank to transform your home into a warm and inviting sanctuary. Even with a limited budget, there are simple and inexpensive ways to give your space an upgrade in ambience without having to sacrifice quality or comfort. Here are some tips on how you can increase the cosy factor of your home without spending a fortune:

Add accessories to your home

One of the most underrated yet highly effective ways to give your home a cosy feel is by adding decorative accessories. Try using rugs, throws, blankets, pillows, and shutters to create depth and texture in the room. You can also use mirrors on the walls or display artwork or photos for an added touch of personality and charm. Mirrors are particularly useful for making small spaces seem bigger and brighter.

Change the colour scheme of your home

Refreshing the colour scheme in your home is a great way to make it feel more inviting and comfortable. Pick calming colours, such as blues, greens, neutrals, or pastels. Opt for bolder hues if you’re looking to create a lively atmosphere. You can add a pop of colour with wall paint, rugs, furniture accents, and other small details.

Light up your home

Nothing sets the mood in a room quite as lighting does. Good lighting has the power to transform any space from dull to dazzling. Try using lamps for accent lighting or hang some string lights for a soft and inviting ambience. You can also use candles to create a warm and cosy atmosphere, but be sure to blow them out before leaving the room or going to bed.

Bring nature into your home

Bringing nature inside is one of the best ways to make your home feel cosier and more inviting. Try adding plants, flowers, greenery, and other natural elements to your space. Even a few green plants can make a huge difference in how the room looks and feels. You can also use natural materials for furniture and accents, such as wood, stone, or bamboo.

Fresh scents

The sense of smell affects our mood in powerful ways, so it’s important to keep your home smelling fresh and inviting. Try using scented candles, essential oils or incense to create a pleasant aroma in the room. Aromatherapy is also an effective way to boost your mood and relax after a long day.

These are just a few of the many ways you can improve your home’s ambience without spending a fortune. With a little bit of creativity and ingenuity, you can transform your space into a cosy oasis that will be sure to leave your friends and family in awe. So go ahead and get creative – there’s no limit to what you can do with a little imagination and some DIY spirit!

What are the things that could compromise the ambiance of your home?

There are several things that could compromise your home’s ambience. These things include the following:

Clutter

One of the main culprits of a messy-looking home is clutter. Too much stuff lying around can make your home look disorganised, and it will impact the overall ambience of your home negatively.

Poor lighting

Lighting plays an important role in how a space looks and feels. Poor lighting can make a room look dull and uninviting. Therefore, you should aim to have the right lighting in your home to make it look and feel inviting.

Inadequate furniture

Having inadequate furniture can also be a problem when trying to improve the ambience of your home. Not having enough furniture or not having the right pieces can make a room look empty and unfinished.

Outdated decorations

Outdated decorations, such as old and worn-out furniture or artwork, can make a room look drab and boring. It is important to update your décor regularly to keep the ambience fresh and inviting.

Unfinished projects

Having unfinished projects lying around can be an eyesore and will affect the atmosphere of the room. Therefore, you must make sure that all projects are finished and put away before inviting guests into your home. This way, you won’t have to worry about the ambience being compromised by unfinished projects.

Bottom line

By making small changes to your décor and using creativity, you can easily improve the ambience of your home without spending a fortune. Simple additions such as lighting, plants, wall art, and adding pops of colour can make a huge difference in transforming your living space into a tranquil environment. Additionally, decluttering and organising your home will help create an organised and pleasant atmosphere. By taking the time to make these small changes and investments, you can transform your home into a place of comfort and relaxation for many years.

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