5 Tips to Make any Space Come to Life

It’s a new year! The christmas decor is put away, and initially our rooms feel a bit bare. Maybe the new year bring new possibilities to freshen up that space you’ve always been wanting too?! Maybe on the top of that to-do list for the new year is finally attacking that space that’s been driving you nuts?! I’ve shared these tips before over at Beneath My Heart, but thought they would be helpful as we all look to tackle some indoor projects during these winter months. So today I’m sharing with you my top 5 Tips to make and space come to life.

One of the most common issues I hear from clients regarding their space is that it’s lacking something, and they just can’t put their finger on it. They usually try to define the lack by using words like flat, blah, no character, uninviting, but the truth is it’s lacking life! So today I want to share with you some quick easy tips to help bring life into any space.

1. Window Treatments : Ok, I know right off the bat that some of you are like “Thanks Bre, I already have curtains, tell me something I don’t know!” Right?!?! Just bare with me for a minute, or if you are completely content with your window treatments skip to number 2. You would not believe how many homes I show up to and there are no curtains, or even blinds, nothing! Talk about making a dramatic difference in a room, and if you are searching for some much needed warmth, drapes are your friend not your enemy. The next thing I look at is the hardware, and then to see if they are layered with say a wooden blind or something similar. We are going to talk about texture in a minute, but one of the best ways to add some depth and warmth to your space is pairing some paneled drapes with a natural texture blind. Not only does it instantly add warmth, but now you are bringing in dimension, and your room has a bit of depth and feels more alive. An inexpensive go to drape for me are these from IKEA, also shown in the photo below.

2. Texture : I said it before and I will say it again, texture, texture, texture. If your rooms is lacking that oomph, take a look around your space and asses how many different textures you have in the room. Texture can come in many different forms, whether it’s adding baskets either to collect items off the floor, or tidy up a bookshelf. On window treatments as mentioned previously in different forms of blinds. Raw, unfinished wood architectural pieces not only bring in a different texture, but add more dimension to your space as well. Chunky knit throws or pillows, all add texture to a space and keep interest flowing throughout your room.

3. Plants – Real or Faux : I have what you would call a black thumb, however fresh flowers throughout my house is top on my list! When adding real plants to a room, it’s a no brainer that they will add life, because they are alive. However I still feel like they are overlooked. If you tend to kill every plant you touch (like me), or prefer something with little or no maintenance faux is your friend. To show you how key this element can be I created a mood board with no plants or flowers in the space, and then did a side by side comparison with plants and flowers in the space. Even on screen the space comes to life!

4. Lighting : Lighting is key! I know just about every room is equipped with one over head light, smack dab in the middle of the ceiling. Let me tell you right now, those are not my favorite. Yes obviously you can use it for chandeliers, and if you must a ceiling fan, but having table lamps and floor lamps make a space feel more intimate and cozy, and also add character and depth to your space.

5. No Matchy – Matchy : Ok so the last one I’m sure you are probably thinking is a bit silly. However, for a warmer, cozier look, you want the overall look and feel of your room to be one that was put together over time, not buying the entire set of furniture off the showroom floor, with matching table lamps and rug. If you have a certain look in mind, refer to your inspiration photos. Study them to find the common denominators, a recurring theme, and items that you absolutely love, and the ones you don’t. Begin piecing together your room, with the large main objects first, and then fill in the space around them with accent pieces. Choosing an accent chair is a great way to add warmth and interest, and key to helping a space look cohesive without matchy – matchy. Adding some secondhand pieces, or even some great weathered pieces from HomeGoods is an affordable way to bring life to your space, and gives the impression of a room put together overtime. Choosing your favorite pieces to put a room together assures a room you will love for a long time, although it takes some patience, the reward is well worth it in the end.

Thanks so much for hanging out with me today! If you need help putting a room together, e-mail me at [email protected], and check out Doucette Design for assistance or having your own custom mood board put together. We’re here to Help you Love the space you Live in. Have a great Day!