Getting the Room You Want: It’s All in the Details

We know how it goes. You oooh and aaah over interior design blogs and magazine spreads, wish for that kind of beauty in your own home, then go on living without it. 

We’d venture to guess you think magazine style is out of your reach because you don’t have the know-how or don’t have the budget. But actually, you can upgrade a wallflower room with just a few details.

The trick is to change the way you look at those I-wish-my-room-looked-like-that pictures. First, pin down why you like a picture – is it the colors, the style of the furniture, the general mood? Once you’ve nailed down what you love about it, pick out the details that are most doable.

Choose just two or three details that contribute to the appeal of the room.

Here’s an example: This vintage-inspired cottage sitting room below has made many a bhg.com reader bemoan their own living rooms. But part of the beauty of this one is that it’s an easy look to recreate!

Architecturally, the room is pretty simple, and the arm chairs in the corner are – let’s face it – nothing special. So your room doesn’t need to start with any major wow factors. Let’s pick three simple things that make this room.

•  The tall mirrors bring a bit of glam to the cozy room, plus add a nice balance.

• The painted wood table is the dash of color that this room couldn’t do without. You might be surprised at how a paint job will spruce up a tired wooden table.

• And it’s a tiny detail, but the potted flowers do wonders to make this room feel more cheerful and lived-in. You can’t go wrong with bright fresh flowers in a pretty pot or vase.

Remember, the trick is to pick just a couple key details to work with. Of course, as your time, budget and style allow, there are plenty of other details you could add to the mix: drapes, rug, chandelier, patterned upholstery. But if you start with the simple things, you just might find they’re all you need!