With Spring in the air, we all find ourselves looking at our surroundings in search of a project or two. Something that will revitalize the home for the year ahead and that goes a little beyond the traditional spring clean.
Here are a few ideas to add a sense of class and luxury to your home, without you having to take out a second mortgage.
I see a red door and I want it painted black
Mick Jagger might not have had home improvements in mind with the above line, but inspiration has to come from all directions. A simple lick of paint can have an amazing effect when it comes to revitalising a home, and used right, bold colours add a real air of drama and elegance.
Painting your interior doors black might sound a little left field, but just take a look at how classy it can look with the right accessories.
Smart use of wood
Natural wood always gives an air of simple elegance. It is also hard wearing and easy to clean. Adding some louvred doors gives a contemporary feel, and how about some wooden shutters to replace those old curtains? In addition to adding a classy look, they will provide a welcome extra level of insulation when winter comes around.
The right lighting
The way in which you light a room has a huge impact on the overall ambience, and you can achieve some very special effects.
Recessed spotlights give a modern feel and are energy efficient, but you will need the help of a professional electrician to install them. If you are looking for a more cost effective solution, consider looking round the local shops for a nice lamp or two.
Pillows and cushions
For versatility, comfort and style, you can never have too many cushions around your living room. Even better, you can buy spare covers very cheaply, meaning you can change the mood of your living room with the changing seasons.
Luxuriate in the bathroom
We all spend plenty of time in the bathroom, yet it is easy to leave it out when it comes to sprucing up your home. People tend to think that to do an effective job will mean spending thousands on ripping everything out and replacing.
This is not at all the case. Just a few repairs or replacements can make a big difference. For example, a new set of taps or a replacement towel rail are extremely inexpensive from a company like Better Bathrooms, but can breathe new life into the overall look of your bathroom.
Your home the largest single investment you will ever make. On top of that, it reflects more than a little of the personalities of those who live their lives under its roof. More than enough reasons to put some time and effort into adding a touch of class.
So why not give it a go, and provide your home with the makeover it deserves.