Changing Up Your Home Decor for a Fresh Start

 Does your home reflect your style? Do your furnishings and decor seem dated or are you on-trend with the latest bells and whistles? If someone were to describe your style, would it be Shabby Chic, Country French, Modern, or cobbled together from yard sales and Ikea?

When I was in graduate school, one of my professors told me "show me what you have and I'll tell you what you want." I spent a lot of time reflecting on this and finally connected my thoughts like a dot to dot children's drawing. My style is eclectic and the items that I own spark joy, have attached memories, and are a personal collection that has inspired me since having my first apartment.

 When we are young and starting out, we may not have the ability to decorate the way we would like, and we learn to make do. As we move into parenthood, creating a personalized space may take a back seat to sticky fingers, untrained pets, and finances used in other ways. If decorating isn’t your passion, then it may not be a priority - though it would be nice to have a home that reflects your taste, personality, and makes you feel at home.

 Changing up your home decor can give you a fresh start. Loving the space you’re in not only pleases the eye, but it is also restorative for the mind, body, and soul. Creating dynamic spaces that reflect who you are and what you love are an outward expression of your inward thoughts and personality.

 Here are some less-than-obvious ways that changing up your decor can refresh and restart your enthusiasm.

 Color- Painting your home in colors that bring you joy can alter your mental health for the better. Are you a warm or cool tone person? Painting your walls in either tone can greatly improve your happiness. If you love warm tones and live in a home of cool tones, you may experience depression due to the effect the color has on you. Warm up your home with rich tones, and your mood will improve. I often choose a basic eggshell beige for my walls because I have so many artworks, wallhangings, and quilts that I like to display.

 Textures and fabrics- Fabrics that are soft and cozy can restore your health and your sense of security. Create a master bedroom complete with luxurious sheets, down comforters, plush pillows, and fluffy rugs. The delight to your senses of touch will restore you every time you are unplugged and regenerating for the next day. I have always loved the sensation of touching silky fabrics or soft velvets, so I make sure to have these tactile fabrics around my home.

 Lighting- Lighting affects mood. Having adequate lighting that is soft and pleasant is an important way to refresh yourself. Finding bulbs that cast a soft glow and create a happy mood will help you feel good every time you are home. I have several OTT Lights because as I age, I need extra light; I have them in every room of my home!

 Art and furnishings- Your art should reflect who you are. There is a saying that no one should buy art or fragrance for someone else. These are intimate decisions that only the owner can truly choose. From the furniture you sit on to the decorations that adorn your walls and shelves, having pieces that are functional, comfortable, and delight your eye is vital. I have a number of collections that represent what is important in my life: books, quilts, and mementos.

 Changing up your home decor to best reflect your personality and taste is an excellent way to refresh and recharge. Being comfortable in your home is the best way to energize yourself to be and do all that is expected of you outside of those walls.

Are you happy with your physical space? What would you like to surround yourself with? Make sure to share your thoughts in our Facebook groups at www.facebook.com/ahousewithfourrooms.

It's essential that you take the time to look at your physical space with fresh eyes...surround yourself with what makes your heart sing, makes you feel confident, loved, and at peace.

Cheers!

Lisa