Small Changes, Big Difference

You probably remember my online client, Caycee, and her living room and guest bedroom makeovers.  (Yes, we are "virtual decorating" almost her whole house!)  She recently contacted  me again because she was planning a party and wanted to make some changes to her den--fast!  She also wanted to work with the existing furniture and to make updates without spending alot of money.

This is how the room looked before:

Although a comfortable room, it seemed to lack color and a focal point. This is the accessory board I created for her room:

I had spotted this beautiful canvas bird art a few weeks earlier and knew the colors would be perfect for Caycee's Charleston home.  We also brought in more color and pattern with pillows and added some lighting and coordinating window treatments.

In less than a couple of weeks, Caycee was able to make some quick changes, just in time for her guests:

The improvements to her room are easy changes that anyone can make, even if you don't have lots of time or a huge budget.  Here are a few ideas for a quick makeover:

#1.  Rearrange your furniture: One of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to give your space a facelift!  Don't be afraid to pull your furniture away from the walls and arrange it so that it creates a cozy conversation area.

#2.  Create a focal point:  The room should have (at least) one big element that draws your eye into the space.  This may be done by adding a a large art piece or mirror or as I previously mentioned, by just rearranging the furniture.  By moving Caycee's sofa and adding the art above her mantle, the fireplace is now the focus of the room.

#3.  Use coordinating window treatments and hang them high:  Before, Caycee's windows had different treatments, which looked a little confusing.  We replaced them with simple ivory panels on all of the windows and hung them near the ceiling.  It instantly gives the room more height and softens the space.

#4.  Bring in color through your accessories: If your room feels a little flat, but you don't want to commit to a major overhaul, try playing with color.  Add pillows, throws, lamps, etc., in colors that give some life to the space.  I started with the artwork and found accessories that played off those colors.

Have you made any quick and easy changes to your home lately that have given it a whole new look?  I would  love for you to share them.  (If you have photos, you can post your home improvement pics to my Facebook page.)