- Identify your needs- What do you want your new space to be? What do you need it to do? Be careful, spend your money wisely to make sure you truly benefit from the renovation.
2. Spring clean your life
Throw out, donate or give away what you don’t need. The more stuff you have the less space you have for living.
3. Do your research;
Understand what your budget will buy you. All too often we have clients who are disappointed before they even begin because of unrealistic expectations as to how far their money will go. Be prepared, with a good knowledge of what’s out there you can achieve much more. There’s always more than one way to skin a cat.
4.Design Style
Choose a design style you want to go with, even mixing and matching is a style. Browse magazines or the net, collect images and use them as a guide to achieve the look you’re are going for. Depending on the type of room you’re decorating, it could be important to find furniture that fits in well with your vision. For example, if you’re renovating a home office, then finding the perfect office furniture can help improve your productivity, as well as turning your dream design to reality.
5.Paint is your friend.
It is a very cost effective way to change your space. Don’t be afraid of colour, get out of your comfort zone, try something new. Not sure about it? Live with it for 3 months & repaint if you’re still not happy.
6.Lighting is key.
Always use the appropriate lighting for each space. If you’re looking to find a permanent lighting solution, aluminum casement windows could be a feasible option, letting in natural light. Task lighting should be bright and focused in small areas in the home, at a desk, above a kitchen counter etc. When in doubt go for low level lighting through use of lamps etc; in areas like bedrooms and sitting rooms. Alternatively, you could consult with a local window replacement firm to find a way to bring in more natural light. Research online for the area you’re in; those in Texas could consider Graceland Windows and Doors as one example. If you’re feeling up to some DIY, have a look into how window installation works first, or consider if perhaps another lamp would serve the purpose well enough.
7. Art work.
Consider placing artwork in unexpected places, you will be surprised at how much more people will stop to look at it.
8. Mirrors.
Be careful with mirrors, while they do give the illusion of space they should really be reflecting something worth seeing. So try having them opposite artwork, the garden window etc. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at home much more dynamic your space will feel.
9. Bathroom tiles
In your bathrooms avoid tiles that are too current, they will date quickly. If you are not sure, go for simple tiles & bring your personality in through items like towels & accessories that are easy to change. Also consider getting some simple but custom glass shower doors to help maintain ease of changing the room’s style down the line without compromising on quality.
10. Baby Steps.
If you are afraid to be too adventurous, try injecting some bold ideas into your space through smaller household items like a vibrant cushion, statement vase or quirky teapot. Mix old and new. Sometimes your old items are given a new lease of life when set beside/ with something new.
Written by Aoife Rhattigan, Creative Director at RESTLESS DESIGN_ & Presenter of RTE’s Design Doctors.
RESTLESS DESIGN_ can help you with your refurbishment project.
Please contact our residential team at 01-4309555 or email: [email protected] to discuss your requirements with us.