5 Tips on How To Keep Your Home Fresh and Updated

A tasteful and attractively-decorated home requires a combination of both classic and modern elements. The trick to keeping it fresh is to start with a timeless backdrop, and then add modern and trendy touches sparingly so your home décor remains up-to-date.

#1: Thin It Out

Clutter is the quickest way to make your home seem stale and outdated. Follow the simple rule of keeping nothing that you don’t find useful or beautiful.

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De-cluttering is easier if you break it down into small pieces. Depending on the scope of the job, you can work one room at a time or focus on an even smaller area, such as a closet or drawer. As you de-clutter, separate everything into piles – keep, toss and donate. If you are reluctant to get rid of an item, but don’t want it on display, box it up and put it away. If you don’t miss it after three months, it’s time to get rid of it.

#2: Freshen Up With Color

The main colors used in any room can make it seem dated. Think of avocado green of the 70s, or the dark brown cabinets of the 80s. These would both look dated, and even cheap, in today’s homes. A fresh coat of paint is the quickest way to get rid of yesteryear’s design choices. You can paint the walls and even wood cabinets and trim to freshen up and modernize your home.

If you want a timeless look in your home, opt for plain white, eggshell or ivory walls. Lighter neutral tones, such as pale gray, also can withstand the test of time.

#3: Add a Timeless Classic

Bathrooms and kitchens are often the most dated looking rooms in the home, because the temptation to use all the trendiest decorating tips is high. What was trendy 10 years ago isn’t today. Instead of falling into the trend trap, go for a classic option. Colored glass tiles and mosaic tiles evolve with a room’s changing décor, providing a consistent and attractive backdrop to whatever trends the new year brings.

When selecting glass tiles for walls, accents and backdrops, choose styles that have withstood the test of time, such as simple colors, mirrored tiles, or iridescent glass. If in doubt, opt for light colors or even plain white – its clean look never goes out of style.

#4: Throw Open the Shades

Natural light is a quick way to open up a room and give it a fresh, clean look. Get rid of the heavy, ornate drapes and valances. Instead, take a minimalist approach to your window dressings. Wood blinds never go out of style and they let in plenty of light without overpowering the window. Simple lined curtains, without the fancy tiebacks and valances and in a basic design, are an attractive option if you like the look and texture of fabric.

#5: Solutions Under Foot

Carpet may seem like a good idea – it’s soft underfoot and makes the floor seem warmer – but it can quickly become a dated and high maintenance problem. Just like walls, carpet colors go in and out of style. The lighter colors tend to age better from a décor standpoint, but they require more care to remain clean and spotless. Finally, carpet is a dust trap, which can aggravate allergies.

Hardwood and laminate floors require minimal maintenance and they have stood the test of time when it comes to style. Hardwood complements traditional décor along with the more modern and minimalist approach to decorating. In kitchens, bathrooms and entryways, where wood isn’t the best option, opt for simple tile in a neutral color. Single-tone mosaic designs are another classic option.

After making the big changes – walls, floors and window treatments – you can continue to keep your home’s décor fresh by incorporating modern accessories and swapping them out as needed. Lamps, display pieces and pillows are just a few accessories that can keep your home décor up to date.

By: Fay

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