New year calls for new beginnings. And they say, charity begins at home. In this case, change should begin from your love nest. Whether you want to splurge or are in a parsimonious mode, there are ways to perk up the house without spending too much time and energy. You don’t need to bring the house down to make it look all new. A little drama can be created using the space well, accessorising and creating a welcoming ambience. We asked interiors experts and stylists to spell out quick ways to rev up your personal space to bring in cheer and newness. And here is what they have to say:
Aroma
“Festivity should be in the air, literally,”
says interior stylist Shafali Choudhrie Diwanji. Fragrance is the key. Choose pure aroma oil diffusers in different corners of the house, including bathrooms. “Avoid the plug-in varieties, though,” Diwanji says. Team the diffuser with fragrant candles to make an inviting arrangement.
Arrange
Turn your coffee table in a conversation starter. “Use candles of different heights. Flowers, both natural and artificial, look appealing, especially with flickering light of the candles. Choose candles in neutral colours and cluster them together,” says Mumbai-based Diwanji. You can also place dry fruits, chocolates or candies in glass jars or glass cake pedestals.
Pop tint
Don’t be afraid of colours. “Bring in a statement high-back, quilted or winged chair in a bold colour,” says interior stylist Jasmine Jhaveri. Upholster your existing furniture instead of buying a new one. “Go for dressy curtain tiebacks or large candelabras in effervescent shades. Try a silk or woven throw in a pop tint on the couch to make it stand out,” says Mumbai-based Bhatt.
Light
The simplest way to amp up the decor is by lighting it up. “Bring in some carefully created amber nooks, high and low lamps, statement light fixtures,” suggests interior decorator Minnie Bhatt. It is best to use fairy lights in glass jars if there are children at home. Buff up old lights or paint jars instead of going for new ones,” says Jhaveri.
Diffuse
Pastel shades give a feeling of freshness and openness to a space, says Minnie Bhatt. “A fresh coat of paint or wallpaper in shades of brown or beige or some other soft, understated hue can instantly infuse elegance into your home decor,” says Jhaveri. Accessorise the walls with photo frames or mirrors in different shapes and sizes.
Space
“A cluttered space makes the home look shabby and uncared for. Get rid of ottoman or a corner table. Or regroup furniture pieces to balance the decor, so that certain areas do not look visually heavy,” Jhaveri says. Place a lone trunk or a chest of drawers to create drama. Ceiling to floor open display unit with a mirror back creates an illusion of space.