List #69 - 5 style upgrades that have nothing to do with trends
These are timeless shifts you can make without spending a lot of money on completely unnecessary, and often overly trendy, design changes.
Buy more art from thrift stores and estate sales
We mix and match a lot in our home, but much of our artwork is either from secondhand stores or framed memories (our wedding, travel, etc). Instead of starting out with the art journey but going to an intimidating gallery, discover what you actually like. Also remember, the right frame can make a $5 card look like a $200 painting sometimes.
Get rid of what annoys you in your home
Whether its a throw blanket where you’re over the color, or the way something is organized. I have found that a lot of times, what is driving me crazy is actually just my taste evolving.
Stop buying kitchen equipment that you’re not using
This may not sound like a design upgrade, but it is. Clutter creates chaos, and the more “stuff” you have, the more you’ll have to store. Goodbye, neat and orderly pantry. Do you really need that pasta maker? Or ice cream maker? Or are you just having a bad day and need to go to an Italian restaurant.
Buy colors you like (it sounds simple, but takes time to find what works)
Beige is a great excuse to avoid adding personality to your home. Even though we do need neutrals sometimes to ensure our space doesn’t look too Alice in Wonderland (unless that’s your thing, go off girl). Buy colors you like for pillows, paint changes, etc, but ALWAYS BUY SWATCHES AND TEST FIRST.
If you saw it on someone’s house in Pinterest, wait a week
Pinterest is perfection. I have made this mistake and will tell you now, always remember that this is YOUR home. What works somewhere else (hello pink bathroom), might not work for you! Wait a week before coming to a decision. And maybe also avoid three glasses of Pinot Noir before buying anything.