When one door closes, another one opens. The end of a relationship can be a time to not only reevaluate one’s life, but also one’s decor.
BEGIN WITH THE BEDROOM
In refreshing one’s home, I suggest to start from the inside out. The first place to begin a home re-invention is in the nest, your bedroom.
Your bedroom should surround you with a sense of serenity, privacy and calm. The bed you purchased together, bedding, all need to go.
Purchase that bed you have always wanted. Then, focus on truly wrapping yourself in sensual softness.
I call it “dressing the bed.”
Here is my design recipe for making it the perfect boudoir.
– Purchase a good quality mattress. You will want a new one, trust me.
– Add a feather bed on top. There is nothing like sleeping on down!
– Purchase thick cotton sateen sheets. I prefer pure white with a basic border pattern or decorative piping.
– Dress the “top of bed” with the bedding of your choice. I say the more toss pillows the better. If you’re a woman, think fun, funky patterns to contrast with your duvet set and don’t be afraid to toss in some beaded pillows or ones that are furry or with a tassel or two. For men, go bold and rich with your colors and try to incorporate interesting graphic patterns.
– Add wall sconces on dimmers or purchase those that use candles. Soothing, calm lighting will rest your mind at the end of the day.
– Layer a scent. Soy-based candles and scents such as lavender can open your senses and refresh your mind. Try placing fresh lavender in tiny cheese cloth pouches and place them throughout the bedroom.
KITCHEN
The kitchen is truly the heart of the home and no doubt it will be filled with items from your wedding registry, no matter how long it has been.
For many, kitchen items don’t hold the same sentimental value as let’s say the wedding dress or tuxedo. If you can use it, keep it. No need to replace all of those pricey gadgets you already own. Still want to refresh? Purchase a kick-butt coffee maker. I mean it, splurge, there is nothing to get you perky in the morning like a good cup of Joe! Buy or make yourself a “me” mug, a quirky cup perhaps in your favorite color to give yourself a quick pick-me-up each morning.
LIVING SPACES
From the family room to the living room and other spaces throughout your home, the reminders are endless.
Perhaps you have a family room where you and your ex enjoyed movies with your children on family night, or your dining room reminds you of the many occasions you and your ex entertained family and friends at your gracious dinner table.
Renewing, refreshing and reinvigorating these spaces can go a long way to recharging your life and giving you a fresh outlook.
First, think color. Go ahead and paint that accent wall you always wanted or add that soothing or bold graphic wall paper print that reflects your personality.
When it comes to redoing your space, pay attention to the large items first and then focus on the smaller details.
Here’s my design recipe for creating the ideal living space:
– Purchase or select an inspirational piece you love from your existing furnishings and build a palette around it.
– Purchase any big ticket items first. Select pieces that are high quality and non-trendy so that they stand the test of time.
– Accessorize. The right accessories and artwork are like the icing on a cake. I love art, so why not purchase a piece of art, perhaps from a graduating art student, to add color and texture at an affordable price.