Redecorate Without Breaking The Bank

Is your decor stuck in a time tunnel? Don't feel bad

, it's a common trap for many homeowners. They have comfortable furniture that's been around for years and still in fairly good shape. It may be slightly faded, or perhaps the cushions are not as cushy as they were 20 years ago, but it's far to good to give away or throw out, but not good enough to sell. Our budgets won't allow a complete makeover, but maybe there is something there can be done to bring the decor into a more contemporary style.

Reupholstering isn't cheap, but it's a great way to transform a dated piece of furniture into something almost new. Choose a fashionable fabric such as an imitation suede and have throw pillows made in complimentary colors.

What about those antiques? It used to be that if you had antiques, then your decor had to reflect the same traditional design. Not so anymore. Now that coffee table you inherited from your great grandmother can sit side-by-side with your leather couch. Don't hesitate to take an ornate lamp stand and add a modern shade from your local big box home store. There is a reason why so much of the new furniture you see are reproductions - the old designs add character and originality to a room.

Examine any empty spaces such as entry ways, walls under stairs, room dividers, long hallways, and consider enhancing with accent pieces. These could range from a small bench embellished with cushions, to a hall table with vase and candlesticks, or an ornate antique chair.

When it comes to the dining room, remember what I said about combining the old with the new. Place contemporary chairs alongside that long wooden harvest table, and include some accent pieces such as lamps or a piece of art, to instantly update your eating area.

Moving into the kitchen, the quickest and easiest way to create a new look is to replace the handles with a nice polished chrome or stainless steel version. If you have those 80's style oak cupboards with faded stain, then it's time to buy some paint and get to work. A few coats of dark chocolate brown or black will make your cupboards look like new and bring them up to date. If it's in your budget, a new counter top might be in order. Also replace that dated fixture with pendants, or other similar styles.

Updated flooring in the kitchen that doesn't cost an arm and a leg is cork. It wears well, is easy to maintain, and is extremely comfortable when standing for long periods at a time.

For the bedroom, there is so much that can be accomplished just with accessories. Replace the old bed coverings with a modern comforter with matching curtains and accent pillows. Or, go for a solid comforter with a printed throw at the end of the bed. If you have an extra high headboard, you may want to consider having a wall of drapes behind the bed to call attention to this area. With a more standard headboard, fill the wall with 1 or 2 large framed pictures, or a couple of shelves with accent vases or photos.

Wood doesn't have to match anymore. If your bed is stained, your nightstands can be either a coordinating color or even painted. Place a small chair in the corner with colorful cushions to add a reading area.

Take a gradual approach to your makeover. Go from room to room and take notes on what pieces look worn or dated. Develop a rating system for your flooring, lighting fixtures, paint colors, and tackle the rooms that need it most first.

by: Rob Thomson

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