There are a lot of reasons why you might feel like your house is lacking in character. Maybe you are renting and feel limited in your options or maybe you live in a cookie cutter house and haven’t found a way to put your stamp on things or maybe you have added things along the way but none of it feels very grounded in a distinct style.
I know personally that I have made the mistake of falling into one-note decorating. I recognized this in my own house over the last year and have been making intentional steps to correct it. Obviously, I am not going to redecorate my entire house because that would be unrealistic financially and it’s really not necessary when a few changes can make a difference.
No matter your style, you can implement these tips and add a little more oomph to your game!
A classic rug
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No matter what style you are most drawn to, a classic traditional rug can really ground a space.
I used to think that since I love a more modern eclectic look in my own house, that a traditional rug would have no place but I have realized I was wrong. I think a little traditional is exactly what every style needs. A small dose can make balance out other more trendy pieces.
Here’s how I am adding it in my house…
Portrait art
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There’s something to be said for not everything in our home being brand new. When it comes to toilets or windows or even paint, new is great but a few old things can really add some character so try adding in a few thrifted finds. Maybe you even have a random antique or two. Oil portraits, real or prints, are a great way to give a room some depth. They add instant history and conversation.
Here’s how I am adding it in my house…
And pssst….mine is a framed book cover!
Mixed metal finishes
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The fastest way to make a room fall flat is to use all one finish. Gold on gold on gold will bring instant Liberace and silver on silver screams the 90’s! One metal finish is just too matchy and draws no attention. Try adding in one piece in the opposite finish from whatever the majority is in that room. All silver lamps and hardware? Add gold curtain rods! And don’t let anyone tell you brass is out!
Here’s how I am adding it in my house…
Truth time…as I looked around my house I realized that I am not following this rule so well.
I have loads of gold but barely any silver at all. I think I have been caught up in the gold craze and forgetting that a mix is better. Noted.
Natural fibers
Think about all of the character found in nature! So many different textures, shapes, and colors so why not bring some of that into your home? Choose a few items with a natural element whether it’s raffia, jute, linen, fringe, leather or suede to off set all the smooth finishes found on store-made items. Gettin earthy is cool in moderation!
Here’s how I am adding it in my house…
These are just a few ways to add some character to your house and this will in turn add warmth, dimension, texture, and personality.
On another note, the last time I showed you the boys’ room it looked like the above.
I have been making some changes over the last few weeks that I am excited to share soon.
Some of the changes were spontaneous decisions while others were in preparation for fall.
I know, I know….summer is barely over and am talking about the next season but I will be taking part in a couple of home tours so I have been prepping early. Come back tomorrow and I will show you my first step in getting motivated for a new season. It’s something you can start doing right now too!
Summer Hogan says
Great post!!! I need to do this in my own house