There's a difference between rooms done by those who are professional decorators and those who aren't. Most of the time those differences are subtle. They're little things like putting piping on the furniture or ribbon trim on the lampshades. But when all these things come together you get a room that looks finished. Here are some ways to achieve that decorator look in your home without having to pay for a professional.
- Add piping to throw pillows and upholstery. It provides a finished look you don't otherwise get.
- Opt for open shelving or glass doors on a cabinet rather than closed storage. Let people see your stuff! Just make sure to arrange your accessories in a nice way.
- Always mix materials and textures. It's what gives a room depth.
- There's no rule saying you have to use a sofa in the living room. Unless you're the type to lie on the couch a lot, try using big comfy armchairs.
- A skirted ottoman can offer much needed relief from a room full of bare furniture legs.
- A round ottoman or coffee table can actually make a room look bigger. And there's no chance of banging your legs on a sharp corner!
- Paint your walls a dark color. It can make a small room look and feel bigger (the opposite of what everyone seems to think!).
- Mix ambient and task lighting in every room. You should always take a 'layered' approach to lighting. Mix table lamps, sconces, floor lamps, overhead lights and more.
- Don't ignore your closets. When you open the door you should be inspired so add some wallpaper, paint, or a few pictures. And don't forget to include a light.
- Use a really bold print somewhere in each room. It could be as small as a throw pillow or piece of fabric framed on the wall.
- Don't be afraid to mix and match your dining room seating. You wouldn't have identical chairs in the living room, so why would you do it in the dining room? It can give your dining room an eclectic and relaxed look.
- Don't buy everything brand new. You should always have at least one or two vintage pieces to give your home some character.
- Instead of using a cheap bathmat in your bathroom, opt for a real area rug. A cotton flat weave or other thin variety can work wonders. You don't need to be afraid of ruining them – carpets and rugs are designed to withstand a lot. (Just don't do wall-to-wall carpet in a bathroom - ever!
- Hang your art in collections. It has much more of an impact than a single piece.
- Do you have some dated sliding closet doors somewhere in your home? Cover them in wallpaper for a bold and colorful update.
- Bring in some flowers. This can't be said enough. A couple of small and simple arrangements breathes life into a room in a way that nothing else can.
