Our homes are our personal sanctuaries, the places where we spend most of our time. And just as we update our wardrobes with the changing seasons, it’s important to keep our living spaces feeling fresh and inviting.
Thankfully, you don’t have to undergo a full renovation to breathe new life into your home. In fact, a few simple decor swaps can drastically change the look and feel of your space. Here are 15 decor swaps I made that created a fresh look for my home.
1. Swap Solid for Patterned Rugs
Rugs are a significant part of any room decor. They can either stand out as the centerpiece or blend in to provide a warm, inviting feel. I decided to switch from a solid color rug to a patterned one, and the impact was immediate. The room became more vibrant, and the patterned rug added an element of visual interest.
The great thing about patterned rugs is that they can hide minor stains and blemishes, which is a practical advantage. When choosing a pattern, consider the other elements in the room. If your furniture and walls are fairly neutral, you can go bold with your rug pattern. If there’s already a lot going on in the room, a more subtle pattern might be the best choice.
2. Change Your Lamp Shades
Lamp shades are often an overlooked aspect of room decor. But changing them can dramatically alter the ambiance of a room. I swapped my plain white shades for ones with a bit of color and the effect was astounding. The room immediately felt cozier and more inviting.
When selecting a new lamp shade, consider the type of light you want in the room. Lighter shades will allow more light to pass through, creating a brighter space. Darker shades will give off a softer, more muted light. Also, don’t be afraid to choose a lamp shade with a fun pattern or texture. It can be a great way to add a pop of color or interest to a room.
3. Update Your Throw Pillows
Throw pillows are a simple and cost-effective way to change up your decor. I swapped my old, solid-colored throw pillows for ones with bold patterns and the transformation was instant. The room felt more modern and the new pillows added a fun, playful element.
When choosing new throw pillows, don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures. Just make sure to stick within a cohesive color scheme to keep the look unified. Also, consider the size and shape of your pillows. A variety of sizes and shapes can add visual interest and depth to your sofa or bed.
4. Swap Out Your Artwork
Artwork is a great way to express your personal style. I decided to swap out some of my older, traditional pieces for more modern ones, and I couldn’t be happier with the result. The new artwork brought a fresh, contemporary vibe to my space.
When choosing new artwork, consider the size and scale of the pieces in relation to your room. Larger pieces can act as a focal point, while smaller pieces can be grouped together to create a gallery wall. And remember, artwork doesn’t have to be expensive to make an impact. There are plenty of affordable options out there, from prints to original pieces by emerging artists.
5. Replace Your Kitchen Hardware
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and small changes here can make a big difference. I swapped out my old, dated hardware for sleek, modern handles and knobs, and it instantly updated the look of my kitchen.
When choosing new hardware, consider the style and finish that will best complement your kitchen. For a modern look, try sleek, stainless steel handles. For a more traditional look, consider oil-rubbed bronze or brass. And remember, installation is usually fairly simple, making this a great DIY project.
6. Switch Your Shower Curtain
Bathrooms often get overlooked when it comes to decor, but a few simple changes can make a big difference. I replaced my old shower curtain with a new, patterned one and it instantly made the bathroom feel more stylish and updated.
When choosing a new shower curtain, consider the overall style and color scheme of your bathroom. If your bathroom is fairly neutral, a bright, bold shower curtain can add a pop of color. If your bathroom already has a lot of color, a more subdued curtain might be best. And remember, shower curtains are easy to switch out, making them a great way to change up your decor regularly.
7. Swap Your Bedding
Your bedroom should be a peaceful sanctuary, and changing your bedding can dramatically affect the feel of the room. I swapped my old, heavy comforter for a light, airy duvet and it instantly made the room feel more serene and relaxing.
When choosing new bedding, consider the season and the temperature in your home. Lighter bedding is great for warmer months, while heavier bedding is perfect for cooler weather. Also, think about the color and pattern of your bedding. A simple, neutral color can be calming, while a bold pattern can add a fun, playful element to your room.
8. Replace Your Curtains
Curtains are a major element in any room’s decor. They can dramatically affect the light in the room and can also add color and pattern. I swapped my heavy, dark curtains for light, sheer ones and it instantly made the room feel more open and airy.
When choosing new curtains, consider the amount of light you want in the room. Light, sheer curtains will let in more light, while heavier curtains can block out light for a more cozy feel. Also, think about the color and pattern of your curtains. A bold pattern can make a statement, while a neutral color can blend in with the rest of your decor.
9. Update Your Plant Pots
Plants are a great way to bring life and color into your home. But don’t overlook the pots they’re in. I swapped my plain, terra cotta pots for colorful, patterned ones and it added an extra layer of interest to my decor.
When choosing new plant pots, consider the size of your plants and the style of your home. Larger plants might need bigger, more sturdy pots, while smaller plants can fit in smaller, more delicate pots. And remember, plant pots are another great way to add color and pattern to your decor.
10. Change Your Door Knobs
Door knobs are a small detail that can make a big impact. I swapped my old, outdated knobs for sleek, modern ones and it instantly updated the look of my doors.
When choosing new door knobs, consider the style and finish that will best complement your home. For a modern look, try sleek, stainless steel knobs. For a more traditional look, consider oil-rubbed bronze or brass. And remember, installation is usually fairly simple, making this a great DIY project.
11. Swap Your Towels
Towels are a functional part of your bathroom, but they can also be a decorative element. I swapped my old, faded towels for new, fluffy ones in a bold color and it made my bathroom feel more luxurious and stylish.
When choosing new towels, consider the color and texture. A bold color can add a pop of interest, while a plush texture can add a touch of luxury. And remember, towels are easy to switch out, making them a great way to change up your decor regularly.
12. Update Your Picture Frames
Pictures and artwork are a great way to personalize your space. But don’t overlook the frames they’re in. I swapped my old, plain frames for ones with a bit of color and pattern and it added an extra layer of interest to my decor.
When choosing new picture frames, consider the style of your home and the artwork or photos they’ll be holding. A sleek, modern frame might be best for a contemporary piece, while a more ornate frame could be perfect for a traditional painting or photo.
13. Replace Your Coasters
Coasters are a small detail, but they can make a big impact. I swapped my old, plain coasters for ones with a fun pattern and it added a pop of interest to my coffee table.
When choosing new coasters, consider the style of your home and the other elements on your coffee table. A bold pattern or color can add a fun element, while a more neutral or understated design can blend in with your other decor.
14. Swap Your Candle Holders
Candle holders are a functional and decorative element in any home. I swapped my old, plain holders for ones with a unique design and it added an extra layer of visual interest to my decor.
When choosing new candle holders, consider the style of your home and the size and shape of your candles. A bold, modern design might be best for a contemporary home, while a more traditional design could be perfect for a classic home.
15. Update Your Serving Trays
Serving trays are a functional and stylish part of any kitchen or dining room. I swapped my old, plain tray for one with a fun pattern and it not only made serving meals more fun, but also added an extra layer of interest to my decor.
When choosing a new serving tray, consider the style of your home and the other elements in your kitchen or dining room. A bold pattern or color can add a fun element, while a more neutral or understated design can blend in with your other decor.