Baby, it's (BRUTALLY) cold outside…
Wow! To say it's cold outside is an understatement. If you've been stuck inside because of the bitter cold, the record snowfall or just because…your surroundings may be looking a little tired.
Here are some cheap chic (and quick) updates to freshen up your home (aka your retreat from the weather):
The cheapest, quickest and easiest (TRIFECTA!!) way to decorate your home is to "shop" what you already own. Walk around your house and look at everything you own. Think how you might repurpose objects, accessories -- even furniture -- in different rooms.
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| No credit card required! Put money in the bank instead. |
Whether it's an accent wall, ceiling, painting the back of your bookcases or an old piece of furniture, adding a fresh coat of paint in an "of the moment" shade instantly updates the look and feel of your room.
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| Try Annie Sloan chalk paint to transform old furniture. In Columbus, you'll find it at Fleurish Home. |
While you have a paintbrush in your hand, try painting on a canvas. I started painting this past summer, and while I'm no Renoir, it's a fun way to add a pop of color to the background of a buffet table for a dinner party or over the sofa.
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| My Masterpiece |
I love, love, love consignment stores. You would be ahhhh-mazed at the treasures I unearth at these treasure troves. Don't just think of consignment stores for buying, these places are a great resource for selling your old accessories and furniture. Cha-CHING!
There are many online consignment stores I subscribe to as well. You don't always have to hit the streets. Save time on a site like "Craig's List" by subscribing to your Craig's List search terms. This helps sort through the millions of items constantly listed.
Don't want to spend a fortune on custom window treatments or bedding? Add embellishments to ready-made versions. It's crazy how doing something simple and inexpensive as adding trim to the edge of ready-made window panels elevates them to nearly custom.
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| Restoration Hardware Baby&Child under $80 |
Adorable (but not adorable in a baby way) accessories at, usually, a lower price than their "grown up" counterparts.
Look for lamps, rugs, bedding (sorry no "king" size for the kiddos) and side tables at these design resources.
Call me crazy, but I always feel so good after I de-clutter a drawer or clean out a closet. There is something about being organized that takes me to my "happy place."
While you're stuck inside, tackle a project. Look through your closet and prepare for the spring season. Sort out what you want to keep, store and buy. You'll feel better. Trust me. It's encouraging to think that spring is on the way. Really, it is. It just doesn't feel like it.
Oh, and did I mention that this is another "free" way to update your home.
Positively yours,
Paula Chamblin Aulino
Associate ASID
PS Sorry I've been on a little break from the blog; life got in the way. All is good, just busy.
