Getting that fresh feeling in your home doesn’t have to cost an arm (chair) and a (table) leg - you can spruce up your favourite space by simply rearranging your existing furniture to create an entirely new feel. Here are some things you can do to revitalize the different areas of your home simply by arranging your furniture.
The Entryway
To jazz up the feel of your entryway first eliminate all unnecessary clutter; heavy winter coats won’t be needed again for months so put them in storage to help keep coat rack clutter to a minimum. For those in need of more storage, use cubbies or try a storage bench to help keep the space neat and tidy. This simple step creates a clean feel as soon as you walk into the door.
In an effort to open up the space even further, place a mirror at eye level for guests to see as they enter the front door. Mirrors add light and dimension to small spaces and a decorative mirror can capture the whimsy of summer. Another way to add character is to place wall décor at varying levels; this will draw the eye around the entryway creating the illusion of more space.
The Dining Room
Another room to rearrange for a fresh feel is the dining area. Depending on your home décor you can place furniture to enhance a traditional or more modern feel, whichever suits your tastes.
For a more traditional set up, place your dining table directly under your light source; this technique will emphasize the focus on the table, which you can either keep clear or decorate with a seasonal runner or low decorations. By keeping the lines low you’re able to open the space; continue this technique with a long low cabinet for china and flatware storage.
If you would like to keep the traditional feel but with a bit more drama, try keeping your hutch at the head of the table In addition to adding warmth and storage, a statement furniture piece like a classic hutch will enhance the gravitas of the room with no need for further decoration. In a traditional dining area curtains and wall décor are best kept to neutral colours so the focus remains on the furnishings.
If your existing dining furniture is a more contemporary style you may consider looking into installing recessed lighting. This simple change in illumination provides a sleek and clean ambiance that will evolve with any furniture arrangement. Place the dining table in the centre of the room for a bold statement, pair with simple seating options to maintain clean lines and provide a luxurious and elegant atmosphere.
A modern dining room should minimize wall decorations so try using only one or two statement pieces kept at eye level to provide a dramatic flair. You can then easily coordinate the table decorations with your hanging pieces to complete the room and tie all the elements together.
The Living Room
The social heart of any home is the living area. To maximize the warmth and good vibes flowing from your main entertaining space, choose a focal point to build around. One such option is a fireplace.
A fireplace is a perfect focal point because it begs your family and friends to sit and converse; you can encourage such social interaction by placing two cozy chairs (more than two and the space becomes cluttered) on either side of the fireplace, combine with an area rug and end tables to create the perfect spot for a nightcap or to enjoy a good book.
With a comfortable nook for quiet reflection all set, try putting a low sofa table along the wall and adorn it with decorative items that reflect your unique personality and style. Don’t be afraid to use lighting fixtures creatively; mixing up the levels (floor lamps with table lamps for example) can create a bold statement without distracting from the warmth and comfort of the seating nook.
If you don’t have a fireplace, another option is to use your windows as a focal point. An added bonus of using the window as your focus is the decoration changes with the season, so you can easily blend your inside décor to match the seasons outside.
Place your chairs on either side of the window with a coffee table between and draw drapes to the sides. You can add a stylish area rug for extra drama or leave the lines clean and chic. This arrangement gives the illusion of more space particularly if you add a conversation bench directly outside the window giving the effect of extending the room outdoors.
The Bedroom
The fun of rearranging doesn’t need to be confined to the communal spaces of your home. To bring a new fresh atmosphere in to your bedroom be sure to place dressers away from the windows to bring more natural light into the room. A low bench at the foot of the bed provides extra seating without disturbing the existing surroundings and lamps placed in the corners bring warmth without creating unwanted clutter.
If there is room for a seating area, consider keeping it simple - one chair and a low table decorated with a small desk lamp creates a cozy spot without altering the spirit of the room.
Keep in mind that you should try to match the furniture to the size of the room. If you have a smaller bedroom, use fewer pieces that are larger in scale in terms of height, like an armoire. This will add volume to the room while taking up minimal space.
Altering the ambiance of your home is as easy as rearranging the furniture. Consider these simple tips and tricks to reinvent the feel of your home without having to renovate or redecorate completely.
Photo credits: sofa, dining room
