Decorating a new home is a fun and exciting prospect. However, it does take a bit of thought beforehand, and a few home decoration tips always help. Taking some time to consider what you want and what the final product will look like can be the difference between disappointment and elation over the final product. Following are some basic tips for furnishing a new home to keep in mind as you begin thinking about decorating your new home.
Choose a color palate
The colors you choose for your home will set the tone for it, so choose colors wisely. Neutral colors are always a good choice because they work with everything and it is always an economical choice. Another option is to choose a focal point such as a piece of art and choose colors to complement and accent it. It is not necessary to have every room be identical or even complement each other. However, it is more economical to do so.
Choose quality over quantity
When dealing with furniture and accoutrements, you really do get what you pay for. Always go with quality items over the less-expensive varieties. In the long run, it is better and more economical to purchase a few quality items that provide comfort and style and that will last a long time rather than several cheaper items that will need to be replaced after a few years.
Don’t fall for trends
It’s far too easy to fall for the latest decorating trends. Unfortunately, trends come and go, and when “new and improved” becomes yesterday’s news, you’re still stuck with a trend that’s become passé. Stick with tried and true classics when you’re deciding on décor for your new house. Leave the trends for smaller accent pieces that can easily be swapped out when they go out of style.
Accessorize
Accessories turn a house into a home. They add personality and a personal touch that can truly let visitors know just whose house it is. Don’t forget to finish off the décor with artwork, lighting fixtures, plants, clocks, area rugs, and anything else that makes the house feel like your home.
Patience is a virtue
Resist the temptation to decorate the entire house at once as soon as you move in. Also, don’t give into the impulses to buy everything you see just because you like it. Instead, take your time and start small. Focus on just one room at a time and give some time and consideration to exactly what you want the finished product to look like. Give yourself time to live in the house and think about what you really need and want, and then act accordingly. Although it may take a few years to get the house exactly the way you want it; it’s the best way to assure you’ll get exactly what you want.
Consider taking on some DYI projects
Few things make a new house really feel like home than putting in some sweat equity. Even the least handy homeowners can take on some simple DYI projects such as building bookshelves. The key is to not overreach, as that can end up costing you more money in the long run. But, think about doing something yourself to give even more of a personal touch to the house.
Try to overestimate costs
Furnishing and decorating a new home can get costly quickly. It’s okay to set a firm budget, but be sure to include a line item for overage. That way you won’t be stuck out in the cold when furnishings and accessories cost more than you originally estimated. Don’t forget, furniture can often have hidden costs such as assembly and delivery that need to be factored in.
Consider buying wholesale or second-hand
This option is great for first-time homeowners, but it really does apply to anyone who has just moved into a new home. Moving in and furnishing a new home can get costly quite quickly. Check out local wholesalers to see if they are selling furnishings at cut-rate prices. It’s a great way to get bigger items without the big price tag. Also, there is nothing prideful nor cheap about accepting secondhand furniture from family and friends. It’s an economical way to furnish the home, at least on a part-time basis.
Think outside the box
When furnishing and decorating a new home, it is important to think outside the box. Take a look at common everyday items and determine how they can be repurposed. For example, a few pieces of open-stock dishware might make a nice wall hanging or some empty crates can be refashioned into unique storage compartments. Just about everything has some type of alternate use.
Failing to think about the decorating process before you begin can result in rash decisions that you will have to live with for a long time. But, decorating and furnishing a home can be a fun and rewarding experience when it’s approached properly. For help getting started with furnishing your new home, visit Design Furnishings to see what they have to offer.