So you’ve taken the plunge, you’ve bought the home you’re going to make memories in for the next 5, 10, 15 years and you’re ready to move in. There’s one problem: how on earth do you make those blank walls and empty rooms your home?
Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered with 7 super easy ways to make a new house a home (that won’t break the bank).
First things first, we suggest picking one of these options to start. Take it slow, don’t add a million projects to your list right off the bat. : )
Select a Paint Palette
This is a fabulous way to make your home “feel” welcoming, light and airy, cozy, comfortable, moody, or sensual. We love the Sherwin Williams carefully curated palettes found on their site. Take their fun COLOR ID QUIZ and watch your home come together effortlessly. You can also browse the Your Design Partner boards for inspiration on Pinterest. Choose a paint palette that reflects who you are, refreshes the rooms and hallways in a way that sets the mood for the whole house.
Remember to start with inspiration from your furnishings and accessories (instead of the other way around). for the best results.
Try Painting the Ceiling
The ceiling is considered the fifth wall and the poor thing often gets overlooked. If a room is otherwise fine, but you want to add your own touch, paint the ceiling! It’ll add a whole new dynamic to the room and make it feel like a brand new space. Plus, it’s a totally unique detail that will wow guests every time!
Lighting That Wows
A simple way to transform a room is by revamping the lighting. Light can literally change the whole vibe of a room and it’s important to have the right lighting for each individual room that suits its uses and the mood you hope to inspire. I love incorporating oversized chandeliers (like these two here & here), sconces (these are great for mood lighting), floor lamps, and adorable table lamps to create layers of light.
Fire Element
Bonus points if your house has a functioning fireplace! Buy a stylish screen, open the flue, and let the crackle of the fire work its magic to make your room cozy and welcoming. If you don’t have an original fireplace or want to upgrade or replace it, go for a gas or electric fireplace. There’s just something about the flickering flames and warm glow that make a room so much cozier.
Another great option (that’s a bit less expensive) is candles! That’s why I created a Your Design Partner line of signature scents – I wanted to help level up the cozy factor with amazing scents, natural wood wicks, and a coconut bowl that can be recycled when the candle is burned out.
Living Elements
Crazy plant ladies already know that a plant can completely rejuvenate a room. Something fresh and green like house plants or potted herbs liven up a space and double as a decorative element. Put them in cute pots and add plant stands or hanging plants that match your aesthetic and you’ve got a little indoor garden that literally exudes life. Plants are usually pretty inexpensive as well, so it’s a win-win!
Wallpaper and Murals
A unique way to create an accent wall, wallpapers and murals are versatile stunners in any room. Wallpaper doesn’t have to be boring, and murals don’t have to be scenes or of people. These days there are tons of options that span the artistic spectrum – so get creative with it!
Window Treatments
Window treatments are great for a number of reasons and an easy way to ensure privacy and light control. A simple addition to your windows, there are a lot of different styles, so no two rooms need to be alike and you can pick a style that suits every room’s needs. Call us today for a free consultation regarding window treatment options for your new home!
Need help designing your home? Want to envision the space before you make changes? We offer E-Design packages that will help you see the potential in your empty space and make design decisions without having to buy and return (rinse, wash, repeat) items that don’t work.
Learn more about our process and to see if we are a good fit! We invite you to take advantage of a complimentary discovery call.
Your partner in design,
Team Ydp
Let me know how you make your house a home by tagging me (@your_design_partner) in your Instagram stories.
This post includes affiliate links, but I do not recommend items I wouldn’t use in my own home.
