Beyond the Basics - small changes, big impact

We all like to make changes to our homes to keep things looking fresh and updated. Many times our budgets will not allow major changes, so we try and find ways to make smaller updates that make a difference.

Here are 10 things that you can do to give your house some no-cost/low-cost changes that will make a huge impact.

1. Paint. A gallon of paint is probably the least expensive way to make the biggest impact. If your new color works within your existing color scheme, you won't have to buy any new accessories or furnishings (unless you want to!). "Like" FHD's Facebook page (@functionaldesigns) and follow my posts that began earlier this week. I've begun a color series that will include understanding terminology and how to successfully pair colors.
2. Furniture arrangement. This no-cost option is what redesign is all about. I LOVE LOVE LOVE arranging furniture! Coming up with a new seating arrangement or interesting ways to use pieces from different parts of your home makes things more interesting. Call me anytime for help with this! :-)
3. Color scheme. I tend to use only a few colors when decorating my home. Keeping your color scheme primarily the same throughout allows you to move accessories from room to room to switch things up a bit. That doesn't mean that the walls of every room have to be the same color or that the furniture has to be all the same finish or fabric. It just means that the colors you choose for pieces in each room stay within the same palette.
4. Accent pillows and throws. Buying a couple of different sets of accent pillows and throws to change out for seasons (or whenever the mood strikes) is much less expensive than buying all new bed linens or a new couch. My advice when buying the largest or most expensive pieces for a room is to keep it simple. For example, buying a solid brown sofa versus one with a colorful or busy pattern will serve a couple of purposes. You will be less likely to grow tired of it as you might with a pattern, and it will be easy to create different looks and get creative using only pillows, throws or other accent pieces.
5. Slipcovers. In the case that you already have that busy couch, or you just want or need a new one, slipcovers are a great way to fake it. Not exactly cheap, but certainly not as expensive as a new piece of furniture, good quality slipcovers are an easy way to create a new look.
6. Rugs. Unless you spend big bucks on imported rugs, this could be another low-cost option for you to change the look in your room. There are plenty of stores that carry affordable rugs. If you have rugs in several different rooms, try swapping them out. (Another benefit to keeping a similar color scheme throughout your house.)
7. Artwork and accessories. Artwork and accessories don't always have to be paintings and vases. If you have a great collection of costume jewelry, try crafting up a shadow box full of items to display in your bedroom. Do you have small children who love to draw? Get a couple of your favorite works of art and frame them for your family room. Pull out a beautiful bowl or pitcher that you hardly use and display it. Get creative.
8. Flowers. Nothing brightens up a room like fresh flowers. If you're lucky enough to have a green thumb and a floral garden, bring some of that beauty inside. If not, even grocery stores sell inexpensive bouquets that you can treat yourself to each week.
9. Lighting. Lighting is one of the most important elements in design and decorating. There are different types of lighting used for different purposes, but there's nothing like natural light. Open up the blinds or shades and let the light in! During those darker months of the year, you may want to add some extra sources of light to be sure you're not lacking. Check your lightbulbs as well. At all times, be sure you're using the best type of bulb and appropriate wattage for the light source and its purpose.
10. Window treatments. This may not be an option for rooms with installed roman shades, or a very practical option for those windows adorned with mega-expensive custom drapes, but changing out sheers or panels doesn't have to be a break-the-bank activity. If you know your way around a sewing machine, making your own window treatments may be a fun activity. Simple valances may be fine for certain rooms, like bathrooms. Or sheers may work in rooms where privacy is not an issue.

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