 | This casual family room is filled with texture, pattern, and interesting objects.
Photo c.2003 Glenna Morton, About.com |
Do you have a plain, boxy room? An unimaginative tract house? A little square apartment? Here are some ways to add some sparkle...Difficulty: Average
Time Required: Varies Here's How: - Remove any "cottage cheese" ceilings. Many paint contractors can tackle this project for relatively low cost.
- Replace the room's outdated molding -- including baseboards, door and window trim, chair rails, etc.
- Add crown molding for an extra elegant touch.
- Update cheap closet doors with louvered or mirrored doors on tracks.
- Take out ancient flooring. Refinish hardwood floors if possible, or have new flooring installed.
- Patch, caulk, and repair any problem areas on walls and ceilings. Then repaint in a fresh color scheme.
- Update the lighting in the room by replacing light fixtures and adding recessed lighting.
- Consider adding built-ins such as window seats, bookcases, display shelves, etc.
- Add fabric with bedding, curtains, pillows, tableskirts, etc.
- Add interest to corners with plants, uplights, folding screens, or other interesting feature.
Tips: - Placing furniture on the diagonal will add an interesting look to many rooms.
- Consider the power of contrast when planning your color scheme. Pair fresh bright walls with crisp white trim and ceilings.
- Add more interest by using wonderful accessories, architectural salvage, and artwork.
More How To's from your Guide To Interior Decorating
~ Glenna Morton |
