by Jan Bertin, Decorating Den Interiors
Jan Bertin, Decorating Den Interiors
Just as we’re getting accustomed to being out and about again, autumn is telling us it’s time to head back indoors. Thanksgiving and the holiday season are around the corner, and that means it’s time to take a good look at the rooms where we'll be gathering to celebrate.
During our forced time indoors, one of two things may have happened to the rooms we use most. Our dens and living rooms and dining rooms have either taken on a hard-edged look that's more office than homey, or they have been allowed to turn into catch-all, undefined spaces that more resemble a college dorm. Neither leaves the impression we'd like, but both can easily be corrected.
By refreshing (or introducing) colors and textures, the overall feel of any room can be tailored to your taste. More importantly, those touches — whether subtle or dramatic — add warmth and allow us to bring a sense of our own personalities back into our décor after a stretch when the pendulum had swung decidedly toward pared-down looks.
How do we manage that?
Jan Bertin, Decorating Den Interiors
Think about softening up the edges. Picture new pillows, throws, rugs, upholstery, curtains; think about the prints on the wall, think about bringing a bit more of “you” into the overall look.
Turning up the cozy factor in a renovated bedroom, living room, or entertaining space can be as easy as adding blankets and some throw pillows into the mix. They make anyone who enters want to instantly throttle down and unwind. Choose plush, soft blankets for the best effect and throw pillows that don't simply fade unnoticed into the background. And here’s a tip: prints are making a big, big comeback!
Think, too, about adding an area rug to hardwood floors to create warmth and depth in the room. Remember that texture instantly makes any room warmer and cozier.
Take a look at your lighting fixtures. Do they scream office-supply store? Don’t be afraid to try new looks that can change the entire feel of a room and imperceptibly direct attention to the focal points in each space. Seek out unique lighting fixtures that complement the space. No time or budget for that? As an alternative, simply, switch out bright LED bulbs with incandescent or dimmable light bulbs that are easier on the eyes. Keep in mind that mixing lamps, candles, or other ambient lights creates an extra comfy feel.
While wide-open windows are great during the day for adding energy and life to a room, keep in mind that light entering from outdoors needs to be controlled and that can be accomplished in ways that are as practical as they are attractive. Give your windows some TLC by adding privacy and finding curtains that drape all the way to the floor. You can easily open these up to let light in during the day and close them when it’s time to settle down and unwind. Beyond that, the flowing look of a well-made window treatment lends an unmistakable air of polish to a room.
Jan Bertin, Decorating Den Interiors
Add some personality! The personality part of the equation can be the most fun. “Introduce” yourself with the small touches that make a space yours. If you have a book collection you’re proud of, find a place to display your favorites. A traveler? Find photos, maps, artifacts or old travel posters that can be framed. Ditto for hobbies and pastimes.
Done properly, cozying up your space doesn't mean you’ve got to undertake a complete top-to-bottom redesign. Keep the steps simple, but by all means keep the steps coordinated. Change simply for the sake of change never, ever works. Think about the looks you like. Capture images from shelter sites and publications and keep your radar open for new touches large or small that might work for you.
And if you think you need some help in that sometimes confusing but always fascinating process, please get in touch with us. As much as I enjoy passing along these insights, I equally enjoy hearing from and engaging with you. That's why this is called The Decorating Conversation. By all means get in touch. I look forward to hearing from you.
To start your next interior design project contact Janet Bertin at 703-299-0633 or janetbertin.decoratingden.com.
