Simple Touches to Create Positive Changes
by Cindy Langevin
From the April 2006
Issue of Applaud Magazine

For many, spring is the perfect time to begin a major home improvement project. Many are adding on to their existing space, while others are looking towards smaller projects that can give their home a new look. Here are some simple tips for decorating ideas that won’t take much time, but can create a great impact. Make change with color – Whether you want to change the interior or exterior of your home nothing will transform a space faster than color. Color is the single most important factor in creating a mood in a room, unifying furnishings that may otherwise seem unrelated, and minimizing architectural faults such as cracked walls or poorly placed windows. Color alone can make a small room appear larger or large rooms appear smaller. If adding color is new to you, then start with a small, easy to paint room, such as a bath. You may try a warming yellow. This color is a natural for everything from dining to sleeping. If you’re not quite ready to add color to your walls, don’t worry. Neutral colored walls can be paired with colorful accessories to change the look of a room, without painting or wallpapering at all. Place some colorful throw pillows on that neutral sofa, add some coordinating window treatments, an area rug, and in no time at all you can make a great change to a space. Create a focal point – A room without a focal point can look to bland, while a room with competing focal points can be to busy. We all know that the fireplace can be a great focal point. But what if you must create a focal point? Try placing a cabinet against a wall with a large painting or tapestry hanging above. A wall of art can be very inviting also. Having a focal point is important to draw people’s attention as they enter a room and to help them get their bearings and be more comfortable. Make a splash with pattern – It’s easy to use multiple patterns within a room and get a decorated look. What you need to remember is use only one large pattern, one medium, and one small, to keep from going “over the top”. Dress up a bed with a plaid quilt, add some pillows and a throw to create a warm and cozy feeling. Use the walls to create a decorative masterpiece by sponge painting or ragging a colorful pattern. Floral toile’s can go on everything from window coverings to chair covers to add some pattern. Wall coverings are also available to use in so many patterns, you’re sure to find one to flatter your space, add some texture or tie the room together. Avoid the clutter – One of the easiest and quickest ways to give a room a fresh look is to ensure that it is neat and orderly. Invest is some attractive storage units to hide all the unnecessary clutter. You can use wall shelves, available in so many different styles, from modern to children’s’ themed. Toy chests can be used in more than just the kid’s rooms, to help keep the mess at bay. Cindy Langevin, Owner and Decor Designer from Decor & You, a national decorating franchise, offers comprehensive personalized decorating services for your home or office. Decor & You offers a complete line of fine custom furniture, window treatments, wall coverings, bedding, art, and accessories for all budgets. For more information please contact Cindy at 603-552-5270 or e-mail at clangevin@decorandyou.com. You can also visit our website at www.decorandyou.com.