There are many ways of giving your living room an instant lift without resorting to a complete renovation — we show you how
If you have decided that your living room needs a make-over, but can’t face the idea of weeks of upheaval, dust, the smell of paint and not being able to find anywhere to relax, don’t despair. There are many ways of giving your living room an instant lift without having to go to all that trouble. With some simple but clever decorating ideas, you’ll feel as if you are walking into a brand new room. Just a word of warning – once you have completed the living room, you may want to continue with the rest of the house!
Give your windows the treatment
One of the quickest and most dramatic updates for any room is a new window treatment. Ready to hang curtains can transform the look of your window instantly, and with clever use of colour, you can add some accents around the room to tie in your new look with cushions and ornaments.
If curtains are not your thing, opt for one of the many varieties of blinds available on the market today and create a sleek, streamlined look that will freshen up any room.
Declutter!
Clutter is sneaky. It creeps up on us when we aren’t looking, and before we know it we have far too many books, ornaments, gadgets, toys or trinkets spread around the room, which will make it look untidy and smaller than it really is. With some clever shelving and storage, you can let the best of your objects shine in their own special place while keeping the rest out of sight but easily found in their rightful place, and your room will feel like one of those in a fancy interior design magazine!
Go green
Breathe new life into your living room by introducing plants and flowers. Group some pots together to make maximum impact, invest in a statement vase that is pretty with flowers or even on its own, and you’ll be amazed at the difference to your living space. And if you don’t have the time or green fingers, check out the lifelike modern artificial plants and flowers available – you really can’t tell the difference these days, and you won’t have to worry about watering them either.
Put your best foot forward
And step onto a brand new, soft and stylish rug. Adding a rug to your living room will make a real style statement, and can completely change the look and feel of the room. You can draw the eye to a particular area, light up a dark room, add warmth underfoot, or add a cosy texture to a stark and open area. Adding a rug is far less investment than changing your carpet, but can have the same impact.
Throw caution to the wind
Throws are one of the most versatile home improvements imaginable. A throw can hide the stains on your favourite sofa or chair, putting off the day that you really will have to get rid of it. It can also breathe new life into a dull room, tie in various areas of your colour scheme into a design statement, and add a layer of comfort when you get time to relax. With so many different colours and fabrics to choose from, there is a throw for every style of interior.
Let the light shine in
Lighting is a great way to make a difference to your living room. Splash out on a new ceiling light, or add a freestanding lamp next to your favourite chair. Even a string of decorative lights, hung above the fireplace or arranged in a large glass bowl, can add a great focal point as well as a warm glow to your room in the evening hours. And if you prefer, you could also opt for a different source of light – candles! Offering romantic lighting and soothing aromas, some scented candles will add heaps of atmosphere to your living room without breaking the bank.
Artistic merit
Why not take the plunge and invest in a few new pieces of art? We’re not talking the Mona Lisa here, but something that you like because of the subject, the way the colour matches your room or just the way it makes you feel. Indulge your creative side and paint or decorate some blank pieces in your own way, or choose some ready-made wall art in your favourite style and watch as it transforms your room in an instant. Take the chance to transfer those gorgeous pictures from your computer into a frame, and add a vibrant display that brings back all those happy memories of past events.
For more inspirational home décor ideas, why not visit www.spotlightstores.com and let your imagination run wild! With hundreds of stylish, practical and innovative home ideas to choose from, you’ll want to start your living room make-over today.
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