Moving into a new house is one of the most stressful things you can do. In the past decade I have moved seven times. I have finally managed to get a mortgage on a house and moved in a couple of years ago. The last few months I have been trying to personalise it with my own little stamps. Obviously you can’t spend a fortune on everything, but it’s amazing what beautiful things you can find on a budget. It’s all about balancing practicality with panache, which I have been trying to adhere to. Here’s a few ideas that have helped me along the way:
Feature wall
Wallpapering a whole room can be finicky, not to mention pricey. I’ve always loved a good feature wall whether it be papered or paint. There are some amazing wallpaper designs out there at the moment for all budgets, or maybe a mural. You can buy these pre- made and just stick them up or if you know anyone arty, let them loose on your wall!
Oversized rug
An oversized rug makes a room look snugger and feels luxurious under your feet, not to mention it may be hiding a multitude of sins. The last thing you want to think about is ripping up all the carpets or laminate, and replacing, this is a quicker and simpler solution that will last you until you can afford to do so. There is such a huge range to choose from, you will find one that suits you easily.
Fireplace
A fireplace is the focal point of any room; it adds so much personality and character to a house. They have come a long way from the old open grate or gas burners. Now, they are as much a thing of beauty as a source of heat. Because of soaring energy prices, people are trying to be more economical with their heating sources and finding new options. One such option is something that has been widely used in Europe and America and has started to creep into the UK market. Take a look at bio ethanol fireplaces, stunning and easy to use. Your room will be transformed with a fireplace.
Add art
If a wall looks bland then put a canvas up to brighten the room. You need to remember that it is your home so choose whatever you want, don’t worry that others may not like it, as long as you appreciate it. If you have children, buy a blank canvas and let them decorate it, you can’t get much more personalised! If you have a particular theme you prefer then search around, somebody will make a canvas with the chosen image. I’m not ashamed to say I have a penchant for marvel comics and have been transforming my spare room into an homage to DC.
Ceiling bling
I can safely say if I see one more ceiling rose pendant and boring shade, I will scream. It’s amazing the variety of light shades and ceiling lights you can now buy. There is no excuse to be hum drum any more. Even chandeliers can be bought for little more than pennies. It adds a bold statement to any room and will instantly be noticed.
Shabby chic
The French shabby chic rage is in full swing at the moment. Whether you have an old piece of furniture lying around that you’re not sure what to do with, or, you rummage down your local charity shop for a bargain, it only takes a few simple steps to create an exquisite new piece. This is the same for smaller decorations. Remember, you don’t always have to buy new, look at what you already have and see if a fresh coat of paint may do the trick.
My house is slowly becoming a home; admittedly it has some unconventional elements to it but I fall a little more in love with it each day. There is nothing wrong with wanting to personalise your rooms, otherwise it will feel like you’re living in a bland show home. The steps above are just small details but they honestly do make all the difference to a room and in all possibility after the stress of moving, your sanity!
