Your home’s style and design say a lot about who you are. The furniture, decor, layout – they all contribute to the overall aesthetic and feel of your personal space. As trends come and go, it’s common to want to update your home’s look. But major renovations aren’t always feasible. Often, small enhancements can make a big difference in bringing your home style up to date. Here are some clever ways to enhance the lines you already have in your home.
Refresh Existing Furniture with New Upholstery
Reupholstering existing furniture is an easy and affordable way to give it a fresh, modern look. Old, worn fabric instantly dates pieces. Consider having items like couches, chairs and ottomans reupholstered in current textiles and patterns. Neutral solids or subtle geometric prints can give classic silhouettes contemporary flair. If your budget is limited, focus on visible areas like seat cushions rather than entire pieces. Even swapping out throw pillows can transform a room.
Update With Strategic Paint Colors
A new coat of paint is one of the simplest ways to turn tired decor into something crisp and current. Go bold with dark, saturated accent walls in hues like emerald green or navy blue. Painting ceilings black is another trending look. For a lighter touch, soft pastels like dusty pink or light sage green are fresh modern options. White and beige have enduring appeal for walls, trim and ceilings. Consider high-gloss or matte finishes for a sleek, contemporary vibe. Paint is also a budget-friendly way to refresh cabinets, furniture, accessories and more.
Rethink Room Layouts
Tweaking the layout and orientation of your existing furniture pieces can give rooms a new lively look. Pull sofas and beds away from walls and place them diagonally to create dynamic lines. Angle area rugs underneath to define sitting areas. Rearrange furniture groupings to balance aesthetics and functionality. Clear clutter from surfaces and ensure pathways allow comfortable flow between zones. Scale down oversized pieces or move them to new rooms for a revamped feel.
Update Window Treatments
Window treatments show their age fast. Sun exposure and accumulating dust quickly leave them looking worn. New drapes, shades and blinds can instantly make your decor look fresh. Consider unadorned panels in linen or cotton,Roman shades in natural textures like jute or bamboo and sleek roll-up blinds. For windows without coverings, frame them with substantial trim for an updated look. Hang curtains high and wide to emphasize height and volume. Opt for top treatments only or coordinated side panels for a streamlined aesthetic.
Repurpose Unused Spaces
Look for unused spaces that can be converted into functional areas with purpose. Transform that walk-in closet into a reading nook with a comfy chair and lamp. Turn the guest room into a modern home office. Use attic space for a kids’ play area. Build custom bookshelves or cabinetry to personalize awkward wall areas. Think vertically and utilize space under stairs or in eaves. Whitewash brick walls and timber beams to highlight architectural details. Even a fresh coat of paint and new flooring can drastically change a room’s look and livability.
Showcase Collections Creatively
Display your favorite collectibles in fresh new ways for an inspired home style update. Use floating shelves, picture ledges, mantels and bookcases to highlight treasured items. Group similar objects together in multiples for impact. Contrast colors and textures of vessels, frames and display surfaces. Opt for wall hooks, suspended cables and clear acrylic organizers to creatively showcase items. Rotate collections seasonally to keep your home looking current. Let your interests inspire how you exhibit meaningful pieces.
Update Seasonal Accents
As the seasons change outside, keep your home looking fresh by rotating decorative accents. Store tired florals and heavy fabrics in favor of breezy linens and citrus hues for spring. Fill urns with flowering branches and delicate greens. In summer, bring the outdoors in with woven accents, wicker baskets and driftwood. Display autumn gourds and dried foliage for fall. During winter, showcase evergreen clippings, crisp plaids and velvet textures. Keep tones cool and filters sheer for an airy, updated look. Shop flea markets and local art fairs to find unique seasonal accents.
Add Exciting New Lighting
Outdated lighting easily reveals a home’s age. Overhead fixtures tend to show wear fastest, casting yellowed, dim light. Consider replacing dated ceiling lights with sleek, geometric pendants or flush mounts. Add stylish table and floor lamps. Position fixtures to highlight displayed art and collections. Use smart bulbs and dimmers to control ambiance and save energy. Don’t underestimate the power of natural light. Hang mirrors and install new window treatments to maximize sunlight. Lighting instantly brings any home into the current era.
Reframe Artwork and Mirrors
Freshen up your wall decor by reframing artwork, prints and mirrors. Replace damaged, dated frames with modern floating frames, oversized mats and slim, polished metal designs. Opt for neutrals like white, black or natural wood. Lean large pieces against walls rather than hanging for a trendy, casual effect. Group similarly framed pieces together in asymmetrical arrangements. Add new life to inherited artwork by re-matting in crisp white and coordinating minimalist frames. Small touches like these make a big visual impact.
Update Hardware and Plumbing Fixtures
Don’t underestimate the power of hardware updates throughout a home. Swap out dated cabinet knobs and pulls in the kitchen and bathrooms for sleek, modern designs. Replace old lighting fixtures, faucets, showerheads and toilets with contemporary styles. Cohesive metals and finishes will make the updates look integrated. Aged brass, matte black, polished nickel and oiled bronze are popular modern finishes. For kitchen sinks and tubs, classic apron front, sloped basin and undermount styles have timeless appeal.
Style Shelving Like an Expert
The way you style shelves and bookcases makes a statement. Avoid clutter by limiting accessories. Group books by color, offset with meaningful art objects. Place displays asymmetrically for visual interest. Incorporate natural elements like stone, wood and greenery for organic texture. Use risers to stagger heights of displayed items. Opt for open shelving to highlight favorite dishware. Install floating shelves at varying levels for a dynamic look. Streamline shelving units with concealed hardware and hidden lighting. Style collections minimally for a curated feel.
Define Spaces With Area Rugs
Area rugs are a go-to way to enhance a room’s style. Choose a size that allows at least 12-18 inches showing at perimeter for proper placement. Anchor seating areas with rectangular and runner shapes sized to fit underneath. Round rugs work well under accent tables. Fluffy piled rugs add cozy texture to hard surfaces. Flatweave, braided, shag and geometric styles have an on-trend look. Muted solids and subtle patterns make versatile choices. Place rugs on an angle rather than squared for visual dynamism. Rotate frequently to minimize uneven wear patterns.
Add Architectural Interest
Consider architectural additions to make existing rooms more visually compelling. Add trim and molding for character. Install paneling or shiplap to blank walls for texture. Swap hollow interior doors for solid wood designs with refined details. Oversized barn doors are a popular modern choice for closets and room dividers. Open shelving offers lightweight separation of spaces. Expose brick walls and ceiling beams for an industrial vibe. Contact experienced contractors to discuss options and feasibility. Even modest changes can make rooms feel fresh.
Embrace Mixed Metals and Finishes
One way to cultivate an eclectic, curated home style is by mixing metal finishes and hardware. Rather than matchy-matchy brass or nickel throughout, opt for a blend. Aged bronze drawer pulls, satin nickel lighting, copper chair rails and powder coated cabinets make for subtle yet distinctive combinations. Multi-colored metal stone set in furniture and chandeliers is on trend. Be bold with unlacquered brass, letting patina develop over time. Avoid an overly chaotic look by keeping the mix cohesive. The blended metals will feel collected over time.
Showcase Stylish Storage
Well-designed storage keeps clutter out of sight while contributing to your home’s style. Built-in cabinetry with concealed hardware makes bookcases and display units look clean-lined. Opt for pull-out drawers in cabinets for a streamlined look. Use baskets, bins and matching hangers in closets to corral clothing. Under-bed storage keeps nightstands tidy. Repurpose dressers, sideboards and buffets to store dining room and entryway essentials with style. Glass-front cabinets and open shelving make pretty displays. Creative storage solutions prevent your home from appearing too messy.
Enhance Entryways
Make a stellar first impression by enhancing your home’s entryway. Paint your front door a striking shade for curb appeal. Install new modern hardware and lighting. Add a welcome mat and potted plant on the porch. Inside, place a console table topped with a lamp and tray for depositing daily items. Hang a mirror and art for visual interest. Use a large area rug for softness underfoot. Display fresh flowers and books for an inviting look. Keep coats and shoes concealed. A refined entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home.
Utilize Multifunctional Furniture
Multifunctional furniture lets you maximize space while keeping your home’s style streamlined. Look for pieces like storage ottomans and bench seating with lift-tops. Nesting coffee and side tables save floor space. Look for convertible furniture like sofa beds and dining tables with drop leaves. Better Homes and Gardens and Ikea offer many affordable options. Built-in furniture like window seating, banquettes and cabinets add function. Accordion room dividers on rollers provide flexible space division. With creative choices, even modest rooms feel fresh and spacious.
Incorporate Mid-Century Modern Style
Mid-century modern style continues to thrive in contemporary homes, thanks to its timeless appeal. Clean lines, gentle curves and natural textures blend seamlessly with both traditional and modern spaces. Look for barrel chairs, eggshell chairs and sculptural dining tables with tapered wood or marble bases and slim silhouettes. Abstract art and graphic black-and-white prints complement the aesthetic. Add an iconic Saarinen womb chair as a focal point. illuminated glass bricks are a retro-cool wall treatment. Let MCM style enhance your lines with its less-is-more beauty.
Emphasize High Ceilings
High ceilings are a prime design feature to emphasize in stylish homes. Ensure light fixtures hang low enough to illuminate the room while drawing eyes up. Bright, white paint maximizes spaciousness. Position tall shelving units, floor lamps, and window treatments to take advantage of vertical space. Hang long draperies beyond the window trim. Display large scale art pieces and mirrors. Arrange furniture to define conversation areas within open space. Repeat elements like molding at varied heights for cohesion. Celebrate high ceilings to keep rooms feeling lofty.
Add Architectural Columns
For inexpensive architectural appeal, add fluted columns inside and out. They gracefully define spaces in entryways, porches, kitchens and more. Opt for wood, fiberglass or polymer composite materials over costly stone. Include bases and capitals for authentic detailing—Doric styles look refined. Use neutral colors to integrate seamlessly with your homeâ€TMs existing palette. Illuminate with discreet lighting for dramatic impact. Square columns have modern appeal, while rounded types feel traditional—choose to suit your homeâ€TMs style. Columns make dynamic style statements.
Define Spaces with Room Screens
Whether you need temporary space division or added artistic interest, decorative screens do double duty. Japanese byobu screens with nature-inspired imagery make serene room dividers. Carved wood or fretwork folding screens add architectural detail. Hinged multi-panel screens create intimate reading nooks. Artistically arranged panels hung on the wall make striking displays. Position transparent screens like stained glass in front of windows to allow light flow. Make your own screen with fabric, trim and decorative center objects. Screens enhance style beautifully.
Add Architectural Columns
For inexpensive architectural appeal, add fluted columns inside and out. They gracefully define spaces in entryways, porches, kitchens and more. Opt for wood, fiberglass or polymer composite materials over costly stone. Include bases and capitals for authentic detailing—Doric styles look refined. Use neutral colors to integrate seamlessly with your homeâ€TMs existing palette. Illuminate with discreet lighting for dramatic impact. Square columns have modern appeal, while rounded types feel traditional—choose to suit your homeâ€TMs style. Columns make dynamic style statements.
Define Spaces with Room Screens
Whether you need temporary space division or added artistic interest, decorative screens do double duty. Japanese byobu screens with nature-inspired imagery make serene room dividers. Carved wood or fretwork folding screens add architectural detail. Hinged multi-panel screens create intimate reading nooks. Artistically arranged panels hung on the wall make striking displays. Position transparent screens like stained glass in front of windows to allow light flow. Make your own screen with fabric, trim and decorative center objects. Screens enhance style beautifully.
Utilize Natural Textures
Natural textures add warmth and a relaxed vibe to any home. Incorporate materials like wood, rattan, jute, woven fabrics, leather and stone. Display organic collections like shells and corals. Use sisal and jute rugs for depth underfoot. Add a live edge wood coffee table. Upholster seating in cotton, linen and leather. Accent tables with stone tops bring nature indoors. Hang woven Roman shades in bedrooms for texture. Cane cabinet fronts, bamboo shades and wood shelves continue the organic theme. Nature’s textures design a perfectly imperfect style.
Add an Accent Wall
Accent walls remain a go-to way to enhance any room with color and visual appeal. Use a rich shade to make a statement behind a bed or seating area. Choose glossy paint or wallpaper for light reflection and added drama. Contrast an intense accent wall with muted neutrals in the rest of the room. Continue the hue onto built-ins, ceilings and even floors for a cocooning effect. Limit accents to just one wall so the room doesn’t feel too intense. Picture ledges, molding and paneling can accentuate walls subtly.
Warm Up With Natural Wood Tones
The warmth of natural wood instantly enhances the comfort level of any room. Stained wood trim and beams add detail to new construction or remodeling projects. Use reclaimed barnwood as an accent on a paneled feature wall. Opt for hardwood flooring over carpet for renewable good looks. Choose wooden end tables with live edges and organic shapes over sleek glass. Add warmth with a butcher block kitchen island. Use wooden bowls, trays and cutting boards for an eco-friendly look. Natural wood feels inviting.
Divide Open Floor Plans Creatively
For better functionality within open concepts, divide spaces creatively. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves double as room dividers. Hang textile screens or bead curtains in doorless entries. Position a console table behind a sofa to delineate areas. Use area rugs and lighting zones to define seating spaces within a larger room. Floating wall shelves with integrated seating create casual room dividers. For more privacy, add barn doors, translucent screens and glass partition walls. Thoughtful dividers enhance open floor plans.
Embrace Curved Lines
While straight lines exude modernity, curved forms relate better to the human scale, inviting relaxation. Seek furniture crafted with rounded edges and sensuous lines. Look for curved-back sofas, oval coffee tables and round area rugs. Sectional sofas eliminate hard corners in favor of an embracing crescent shape. Repeat circular forms with storage ottomans, pendant lights and wall mirrors throughout for visual harmony. Fluid lines feel organic, giving comfort to open floor plans. Graceful curves enhance spaces beautifully.
Play With Proportions
Injecting whimsy into your home is as easy as playing with proportions. Oversized pieces make dramatic statements, especially against minimalist backgrounds. Extend ceiling height visually with a wall-size gallery display. Contrast dainty accent chairs with a substantial dining table. Customize vignettes with giant flowers, books or art pieces. Add lightweight impact with oversized drum pendant lights. Alternatively, opt for tiny chair and table sets in cozy reading nooks. Unexpected proportions create playful, personalized style.
Zone by Color Scheme
Defining each zone of an open floor plan with a distinct color palette helps delineate the spaces. A moody media room features deep blue walls and furniture upholstered in lush velvets and leathers. The dining area contains clean-lined blonde wood pieces and soft neutrals. Vibrant accent colors in the kitchen tie the zones together. Repeat hues in artwork, pillows and accessories throughout for cohesion. Unique color schemes help naturally transition visitors as they move through rooms.
Install Gallery Lighting
Showcase fine art and treasured collections with gallery-quality lighting techniques. Position picture lights above focal pieces to illuminate details. Use individual LED discreetly behind light boxes to highlight displayed objects. Install track lighting with adjustable spotlights and swivel arms to direct light across groupings. Dimmer switches allow you to set the perfect ambiance. Choose bulbs with high CRI ratings to render colors accurately. Proper lighting transforms displays into galleries.
Define Spaces With Rugs
Rugs help delineate living spaces within open floor plans through size, shape and color. Place each seating area on its own rug like islands in a sea of flooring. Opt for lightweight flatweaves that allow chairs to move easily. Choose muted neutrals if boldly colored walls define the zones. Alternatively, make bright patterned rugs the focal point against neutral backdrops. Coordinate materials so spaces flow together. Mind edges aligning. Well-defined rugs enhance the overall design.
Add Architectural Columns
For inexpensive architectural appeal, add fluted columns inside and out. They gracefully define spaces in entryways, porches, kitchens and more. Opt for wood, fiberglass or polymer composite materials over costly stone. Include bases and capitals for authentic detailing—Doric styles look refined. Use neutral colors to integrate seamlessly with your homeâ€TMs existing palette. Illuminate with discreet lighting for dramatic impact. Square columns have modern appeal, while rounded types feel traditional—
