Article:
Fresh Approach to Existing Rooms
By Shelley Anderson
May 2007
Do you want a fresh look in your home but don’t want to spend a lot of money? Try rearranging. Just like those re-design shows on television, you can redecorate with what you already have. By giving a new purpose for your existing furnishings, you can transform a room with a fresh perspective.
The best way to begin is to remove everything from the room you are going to work in. All furnishings, artwork, accessories, and soft window coverings. Starting with a blank canvas will inspire you to see new potential in your old pieces.
Before you begin placing furniture in the room, assess the condition of the walls. Even if you are not going to paint, it will be easier to touch-up dings with all the furniture removed. Also look at your ceiling lighting for burned out bulbs or total replacement of the fixtures.
Think about how you will be using the room. Is it for entertaining or watching television? Consider doing a rough sketch on paper, just to get an idea of traffic flow and what pieces of furniture will relate to each other.
When you are ready to move your furniture back in, start with the largest piece. This will usually be the sofa or entertainment center. Follow up with secondary sized pieces, chairs, end tables, coffee table. Do not bring in any accessories or artwork until you are satisfied with the placement of your furniture. Walk around through the room, sit on the furniture to see if it feels "right". Can you view the television as planned? Are the furniture pieces comfortably situated for conversation?
If you are satisfied with your arrangement, it’s time to accessorize! Be creative! Don’t just re-hang art where you had it before. Are there items from other rooms that would be better in your "new" room? Don't forget to pay attention to scale of furniture versus accessories.
Take care to not overdo your new room. Decluttering is one of the hottest trends no matter what your style. I think it was a natural by-product of the whole nesting trend. People are spending more time at home, and are tired of seeing a mess.
At this point you may discover that you need a fresh punch of color or texture. Try a sparkly sequined pillow to add glamour to your bed or sofa. Throw pillows are a perfect way to add trendy colors and patterns to a room. This is an inexpensive and easy change to make.
Shelley Anderson has been creating interiors in the greater Seattle area since 1990. You may contact her at (206) 719-6814 or email her at
shelley.anderson@shelleyandersoninteriors.com.