Lockdown 2.0 has hit the UK – in case you didn’t know – which leaves sooooo many of us sat at home staring at the same four walls for 12 hours a day.
And whether you’re working from home or furloughed, not all of us have the money to drop massive DIY projects when we’re stuck for things to do. But doing a little decorating or giving your home much-needed revamp doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket.
The good news is, there are a few things you can do to give your home the breath of fresh air it so desperately needs.
And let’s face it, who doesn’t want a better room to look at as we head into winter?
Shall we crack on?
1. Mirror, mirror on the wall
Mirrors are one of the most powerful (and easiest) ways to improve the appeal of any room. They add both light and space, giving the impression that your room is bigger than it is – perfect if you have small rooms. Plus, they make excellent wall dressings, helping to break up the area and make it look far more interesting.
2. Get some pics up
A similar principle applies when it comes to hanging pictures. Placing photographs or images in wooden frames and hanging them on your walls can radically transform the appearance of any room. Suddenly, the room gains a new dimension that makes them appear easier on the eye.
And who doesn’t want to be reminded of a time before 2020?
3. Contemporary meets classic
Combining contemporary designs with classical materials is a radical yet effective way to improve the look of a room. Choose pieces that combine materials or fuse design elements from different eras for a stunning and striking look, such as a coffee table that uses both traditional wood and modern glass.
4. Bye bye curtains, hello blinds
Curtains take up a lot of space in rooms and can sometimes make them feel frumpy and drab, like something your Nan would have. Replacing them with blinds immediately lifts the area and scatters it with light, even when you close them. It gives the interiors an entirely new vibe that you just can’t get with regular curtains.
5. Bring the outdoors in
Nothing improves the appearance of a room more than flowers and plants. And what’s more, you don’t always have to spend a fortune. Even plants and shrubs you pick in your back garden can all make a difference.
Daffodils, for instance, help to lift a living room when you place them on the mantelpiece. Adding potted hyacinths can also make your rooms look more welcoming.
Cacti and succulents are perfect if you’re a bit black-thumbed.
6. Touch of sparkle
Sound cringey? Doesn’t have to be. Glitter and sparkles is a totally in look, and today, we’re spoiled for choice for sparkling homewares. Practically every department store sells something golden or silver than shimmers.
Try placing a glitter vase on your coffee table or add a sparkling picture frame to your walls. It’ll immediately give your room a luxe feel and help it feel more homely.
7. Go cosy
I’m a sucker for a throw. I just love how they look on furniture and when they’re within arms reach – aka A LOT OF THEM – they’re perfect for grabbing during Netflix sessions and curling up. Placing cosy throws around your home is a great way to enhance its visual appeal and increase the snuggle factor. Blankets and quilts help to draw the eye and make the sofa even more enticing for couch potatoes.
8. A splash of colour
At the end of the day, sometimes the best way to lift a room is to add a splash of colour to the interior. If you don’t want to repaint the entire room – or if you don’t have the budget – you can always add accents. A little dab of paint here and there that make your interiors more interesting. And it means you can opt for the £3 tester pots at B&Q instead.
If you’re struggling to find inspiration, check out your local DIY store for examples of the types of effects you can create. You’ll notice that small flecks of paint deployed correctly can make a big difference.
So, will you try using any of these ideas to lift your interiors?
