Small Changes, Big Impacts
There are many ways to get out of a visual rut. Most of us have lived with our furnishings, window treatments and decorative accessories for many years. It’s pretty likely that we will be tired of them before a major re-vamp is called for. While working with professional interior designers every day, I see a lot of these items come through the workroom.
Living Rooms
We can all replace dated pattern or color drapery panels with new solid linen or cotton blends, even adding a decorative tape trim down to the leading edges will help. This can often be done on existing hardware as well. In the case of valances over panels, by easily removing the valances and hanging the existing panels on new, decorative hardware, you can update the area. You can then tie your new scheme together with a couple pillows for the sofa, using its existing fillers, even adding a rectangular pillow in the middle. Spice it up by adding a decorative throw and re-arranging some art, even from one room to another.
Dining Rooms
An inexpensive change that also uses a small amount of fabric is changing out the dining chair’s slip seats. Add a coordinating table runner and centerpiece to finish the area. As always, a simple window treatment update and a fresh paint color will work wonders for the space.
Bedrooms
Whether it’s a guest room or the master bedroom, a change of drapery panels that coordinates to a bed scarf and just one great pillow can refresh the whole area. Coordinate the adjoining bath by simply adding a new shower curtain and plush towels.
Overall
Sometimes, just a couple hours of consulting with a Professional Interior Designer can help you see your home in a whole new light. They will have a different perspective of your belongings. Even a new placement of a few existing pieces can transform the whole space! For example, that landscape painting that has always hung over the dining room buffet could be moved to over a fireplace, guest room or hallway. Thus, making room for a new piece that embraces the beauty of your Low Country home!
Submitted by Jennifer Kirkland, ASID
Graduate Parson’s School of Design
Owner of Carolina Window Designs
