15 Simple Ways to Update the Look of Any Room

By James Charles

When you think of changing the look of a room, you probably most often think of making major changes. And, while old-fashioned rooms sometimes need such a drastic approach, it’s possible to create a whole new look by just making modest, inexpensive changes to your room.

Try these 15 simple ways to update the look of any room.

1. Add or change accent pillows — If your room feels too bland, add some colorful, patterned or striped pillows and get rid of boring monochromatic pillows. Try mixing and matching pillow sizes.
    

2. Add matching area rug — Brighten up the room even more by matching a beautiful area rug to your new pillows. Put it at an angle to the couch.
    

3. Change your curtains   — In the summer, put up some fresh and lively colors. In the winter, put up dark or subdued colors.
    
4. Refresh the walls — First, patch, caulk, and repair any problem areas on walls and ceilings. Then, paint them a different color. Or add texture to the walls.
    
5. Rearrange furniture — Position your furniture diagonally. Pull the couch away from the walls. Try some new layouts.
    
6. Create a new focal point to the room — Orient the seating around the fireplace and not the television. Or put the couches and chairs so that people are more encouraged to talk to one another.
    
7. Add greens — Plants and flowers can add greatly to a room’s ambiance. Try silk plants and trees too.
    

8. Add artwork — Frame some of your family photos, buy inexpensive paintings or watercolors, or paint your own.
    
9. Change lamps — Nothing refreshes a room more than new, fresh lamps. You can find a great selection of low-cost lighting today. Add recessed lighting.
    
10. Change bulb wattage — Going from 60 to 120 watts can make a big difference. Changing to a lower wattage can create a cozier, intimate feel.
     
11. Hang mirrors — Position an oval mirror sideways to add interest. Use a combination of different size mirrors.
     
12. Show off collectibles — Set up a display area and design an interesting grouping with a variety of shapes.
     
13. Add an Afghan - Afghans can give a whole new look to your furniture. They come in many natural and man made fabrics.
     
14. Remove "cottage cheese" ceilings — Try to find a painter who will do this for a relatively low cost.
     
15. Get rid of the clutter – Open up the room’s space by finding storage space for the excess papers, toys, and other items you have in the room.

As you can see, not all home decorating ideas require a heavy investment of time and money. Try these 15 affordable home interior decorating ideas to freshen up a room over a weekend.

Author's Resource: Article by James Charles, an award-winning interior designer who offers premium room design services without premium prices at DesignerAtHome.com.

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