Everyone wants to live in a home that's beautiful, comfortable, and functional. Of course, a well-designed space doesn't happen by chance!
With so many decorating shows, sites, magazines, and more available at our fingertips, it's easier than ever to take decorating into your own hands and create living spaces like a professional. While this is true, even the most well-intentioned home decorator can go awry without the proper professional guidance from time to time.
If you've experienced a decorating pitfall on your journey to the home of your dreams, you're not alone. The Star Furniture design team has seen its fair share of home decor missteps over the years. Decorating mistakes can be learning experiences for homeowners. That said, how much better to learn from the pros and avoid costly missteps in the first place? Star Furniture is here to help. Check out the 7 biggest decorating mistakes design pros see every day and what you can do to avoid them.
Too often, people bring a piece of furniture home without ever considering its size compared to the room where they intend to put it. As a result, it's common for furnishings to be too large or too small for the space. No matter how stylish or practical a piece of furniture may be, if it's disproportionate to its surroundings, it will assuredly disrupt the harmony of the entire room. Furniture that's too big for a room will make it appear small and closed in while furniture that's too small for a room can get lost and feel awkward.
With this in mind, it's well worth your time to measure the room that you're decorating before introducing any new furnishings as well as each piece that you bring home. This simple step will ensure that you don't waste time, money, and effort investing in furniture that isn't the best option for your home. To prevent the unfortunate situation of bringing home a sofa that's too big for your living room or a dining room table that's too small, keep these helpful tips in mind from the design pros at Star Furniture:
When you're decorating a room in your home on your own, it can be tempting to go to a furniture store and buy an entire living room or bedroom set right off the showroom floor. The thought behind this approach is that there's no question about whether or not a group of furnishings go together; they're all made from the same materials and conceived as a unified group.
It's true that matching everything in a space is an easy way to put together a space, but while you might take the risk and guesswork out of home design, you also lose the personality and warmth. An overmatched room doesn't merely look outdated, it can also look flat and uninspired. If you'd like your living spaces to look like they were curated by a professional designer (and who doesn't?), it's much more effective to play with texture, color, and patterns to achieve a look that is dynamic and unique.
Mixing patterns and prints doesn't always come naturally for everyone and that's okay. The Star Furniture design team has some tried and true tips to help you put together rooms that are cohesive, balanced, and, most importantly, interesting:
There's nothing more lackluster than a well-decorated room that is dark or not properly illuminated. Unfortunately, this is one decorating blunder that the Star Furniture designers encounter frequently. Either a room is lit up by one inadequate overhead light fixture or an assortment of lamps that serve no specific purpose. This causes otherwise beautiful homes to look small, dark, and dated.
The lighting in your home will play a major role in its appearance and ambiance. Because of this, lighting fixtures should be incorporated strategically, not haphazardly. If you know the lighting in your home could use a facelift but aren't sure where to begin, the trusted design team at Star Furniture has you covered. Keep these practical tips in mind to utilize the lighting in your home like a pro:
Your home should be a place where your life can be comfortably lived. If your home is decorated in such a way that it's always ready for a photoshoot but you're too scared to mess something up to relax or entertain in it, something has to give. After all, what good is a house that you can't truly live in?
For this reason, be sure to prioritize functionality when thinking about how you'd like to decorate a room in your home. Luckily, it's possible to balance aesthetic appeal with practical needs. Beautiful homes can also be livable. To help make every area of your home as functional as they are attractive, here are some tips from the interior designers at Star Furniture:
Decorating with color can be a daunting task. Even folks who appreciate bold, playful colors can be overwhelmed by the thought of trying to decide which colors to pair together and how. Unfortunately, this can lead homeowners to play it too safe with color, leaving their living spaces feeling bland and stark. You don't have to take a shot in the dark and hope you get lucky to decorate with color in a way that's compelling and fresh. On the contrary, it's possible for everyday homeowners to use color with confidence in every area of their home. The Star Furniture experts are here to show you how:
There's a reason that art looks stunning in rooms coordinated by professional designers. It's not just that they choose pieces that perfectly complement the surrounding decor (although that's certainly part of it). The secret is understanding how to properly hang wall art so that it elevates the space.
The wall hangings you incorporate into your home should be as intentional as any other furnishing or accessory. Finding a photograph or painting endearing is not reason enough to display it front and center in your living room. On the contrary, there are guidelines for displaying wall art that can help you take your home's overall style to the next level. Check out these tips from the trusted Star Furniture team to hang the art in your home properly:
The quickest way to take away from the visual appeal of any room in your home, big or small, is to clutter it up with unnecessary pieces. Whether it's a stack of books on your nightstand, a pile of clothes draped over your armchair, or random knick-knacks strewn about your living room, clutter can single handedly sabotage even the most style-forward living spaces. Oftentimes, homeowners don't even realize how cluttered certain areas of their homes have become because they've grown so accustomed to disorganization.
Once you recognize that your house is cluttered, the hardest part is behind you. You can then move forward in letting go of the items that are holding your home back from reaching its full potential both aesthetically and functionally. Of course, decluttering isn't always easy, especially if you have a lot of things to get rid of. For this reason, the Star Furniture design team has some helpful tips to ensure your decluttering journey goes as smoothly as possible:
From ignoring the scale of a room and overmatching everything to not lighting rooms properly and hanging wall art incorrectly, the design team at Star Furniture has seen every home decorating mistake under the sun. Luckily, this means that we're well-equipped to help you overcome them if you encounter one for yourself. If you're trying to put together rooms that look like they were professionally curated but are somehow falling flat, we're here to help. Stop by our showroom today to learn more about how you can gain a balanced, informed perspective by working with a Star Furniture designer.
Everyone wants to live in a home that’s beautiful, comfortable, and functional. Of course, a well-designed space doesn’t happen by chance! With so many decorating shows, sites, magazines, and more available at our fingertips, it’s easier than ever to take decorating into your own hands and create living spaces like a professional. While this is […]
When you first move into a home, it's easy to feel enamored by your new space. Everything's fresh and new - like the so-called 'honeymoon phase' in a romantic relationship. From your home decor choices to your perspective, basking in the joy and satisfaction of your living spaces is virtually effortless. Like any long-term relationship, however, the newness of the crush wears off! The good news is that reigniting the passion for your home is possible with a few simple interior design changes. The Star Furniture pros are here to help you on your journey of rediscovery and romance with your home. Check out these 6 tips to rekindle the romance in your living spaces.
Before you begin revamping an area of your home, it's important to assess what you currently love about your house. Perhaps you're happy with the wall color in your living room or the draperies in your dining room. Or maybe you have a particular architectural feature that you'd love to highlight, such as a fireplace.
If you're struggling to pinpoint the features in your home that you appreciate, think about the aspects that made you fall in love with it when you first moved in. Once you've identified a few of your favorite things, be sure to write them down or take a photograph. This will give you a baseline to work from as you work through the decorating process.
It's hard to feel drawn to a room that's messy and cluttered. When your home is disorganized and over-crowded, chances are that your living spaces look smaller, darker, and less inviting. On the other hand, when your home is clutter-free and organized, it will undoubtedly feel more spacious, bright, and enticing.
With this in mind, it's worth considering what items need to leave your house before you can think about introducing new furnishings. Taking the time to declutter your home is a simple step that can have a tremendous positive impact on the way virtually any space in your home looks and feels. Here are some tips to help you get organized:
It's no secret that color can have a dramatic effect on the way you feel in a room. If there's an area of your home that you dread spending time in, the color scheme may be to blame. Consider that even your favorite colors might not be the best option when redesigning your home. For instance, dark colors can sometimes make a small room feel even smaller. Likewise, bold colors, such as red or orange, could make you feel more alert than relaxed, which may not be ideal in rooms like your bedroom.
When it comes to creating living spaces that help you feel relaxed, comfortable, and inspired, the color palette you choose is significant. You can't go wrong with tasteful neutrals, such as cream, white, gray, or tan, on everything from your wall color and sofa to your bedspread and area rug. Looking to add a pop of color? Stick with soft colors that complement your existing furniture, such as this sage green ottoman.
No one is more critical of a home than the person who lives there. In most cases, the state of a homeowner's furniture and home decor isn't as bad as they think it is. A space may just need to be viewed from a different perspective to be appreciated. Fresh starts are exciting and can sometimes be as simple as looking at the space and your possession with fresh eyes. Ask yourself how you might rearrange or repurpose items to add new life.
When you see the same room day after day, it can sometimes be a challenge to imagine it any differently. If this is the case for you, don't hesitate to ask a Star Furniture designer for guidance. They can offer a fresh perspective, such as pulling your sofa away from the wall or hanging your curtains higher to create the illusion of a room being bigger than it is.
If you think that every room in your home has to be filled with an array of extravagant pieces to achieve a beautiful aesthetic, think again. On the contrary, a few quality statement pieces in each room may be just what you need to create a home where every space feels thoughtful and stylish. While just about any piece can be used as a focal point, investing in key pieces that will act as the anchor in terms of appearance and functionality is the way to go according to the Star Furniture experts. For instance, choosing a bed that's as attractive as it is comfortable can effortlessly enhance your bedroom. Similarly, placing the focus primarily on the sectional in your living room can help streamline your decorating journey while still ending with an amazing result.
At the end of the day, homeowners feel most satisfied and at ease in their homes when their living spaces feel like their own. Sure, quality furniture and beautiful accessories are a good place to start, but every space requires a personal touch to truly feel like a home (more importantly, your home). With this in mind, don't be afraid to personalize every area of your home with pieces that reflect your unique taste, style, and experiences. Place meaningful photographs on your bookshelf, pair family heirlooms with new pieces for a playful twist, and incorporate knick-knacks from your travels to create rooms that don't merely look fabulous but feel familiar. You'll look forward to spending time and hosting friends in a house that's filled with everything you love.
Just because the love you once felt for your home may be dwindling, doesn't mean that you can't get it back. With a few simple steps and some help from the experienced design team at Star Furniture, you'll be well on your way to feeling passionate about where you live once again. Visit us online to check out our large selection of wall art, storage solutions, statement pieces and more!
When you first move into a home, it’s easy to feel enamored by your new space. Everything’s fresh and new – like the so-called ‘honeymoon phase’ in a romantic relationship. From your home decor choices to your perspective, basking in the joy and satisfaction of your living spaces is virtually effortless. Like any long-term relationship, […]
A tranquil home is a happy home. Taking the time to design a space that feels like a sanctuary can support a sense of ease in all areas of your life. Regardless of your interior decorating style, anyone can create a home that feels like a personalized retreat with the right pieces of furniture. Check out these 8 essential design elements from the trusted Star Furniture design team to help you create a serene sanctuary at home.
The outside world can sometimes be stressful and overwhelming; your home shouldn't be. At the end of the day, everyone wants a home that is as serene as it is beautiful. A serene home is one that effortlessly promotes relaxation, comfort, and peace. No one wants to feel on edge or overwhelmed when they walk into their home at the end of a long day. Instead, they want to feel as though their living spaces are offering them a warm embrace, away from the troubles that exist outside their front door.
The good news is that every person has the power to design the calm, welcoming home their heart desires. With a little direction from the Star Furniture experts, you can intentionally curate rooms that promote relaxation, comfort, and functionality. Then you'll be well on your way to transforming your ordinary home into a stress-free oasis that you look forward to spending time in with your family and friends.
When designing your serene home sanctuary, it's always best to start out with a comfortable and stylish bed. Your bed should feel fabulous and look attractive to give you the rejuvenating experience you deserve every time you lie down on it.
Of course, beauty and comfort are subjective. Your personal preferences will help determine which type of bed you bring home. That being said, here are a few tips from the Star Furniture pros that can help you make the process of creating your dream bed easier. Check them out:
Whether you're lounging in your bedroom, enjoying a meal around your dining room table, or entertaining guests in your living room, having a variety of comfy places to have a seat in your tranquil home is essential. Stylish seating arrangements can certainly make your living spaces look attractive, but at the end of the day, the way your armchairs, dining room chairs, sofas, and other seating arrangements look don't matter if they don't feel cozy when you sit on them.
When looking for seating options that invite you to take a load off, keep your eyes open for soft upholstery, plush cushions, and a supportive design. Trying different chairs and sofas out for yourself in person is the best way to ensure that each seat offers optimal comfort and support. Sometimes buying a new chair, sofa, or sectional from a trusted showroom, such as Star Furniture, isn't an option. In this case, be sure to read plenty of reviews from verified customers to guarantee that your new seating arrangement isn't merely charming but also cozy and relaxing. Check out these furnishings from Star Furniture that are sure add a touch of comfort to any space in your home:
If you're striving to create living spaces that feel calm and tranquil, the light sources you incorporate into your home matter. Consider that not every lighting solution is created equally. Some fixtures offer light that is bright and harsh while others create a soft, warm ambiance. To make sure that every area of your home is properly lit, it's important to identify what each space will be used for. You won't need the same type of lighting in your kitchen where you need to see clearly as you cook as you will in your bedroom where you go to rest and relax.
Here are some tips from the trusted team at Star Furniture to help you enhance the serenity of your home with the right lighting solutions:
A tranquil home is a happy home. Taking the time to design a space that feels like a sanctuary can support a sense of ease in all areas of your life. Regardless of your interior decorating style, anyone can create a home that feels like a personalized retreat with the right pieces of furniture. Check out these 8 essential design elements from the trusted Star Furniture design team to help you create a serene sanctuary at home.
The outside world can sometimes be stressful and overwhelming; your home shouldn't be. At the end of the day, everyone wants a home that is as serene as it is beautiful. A serene home is one that effortlessly promotes relaxation, comfort, and peace. No one wants to feel on edge or overwhelmed when they walk into their home at the end of a long day. Instead, they want to feel as though their living spaces are offering them a warm embrace, away from the troubles that exist outside their front door.
The good news is that every person has the power to design the calm, welcoming home their heart desires. With a little direction from the Star Furniture experts, you can intentionally curate rooms that promote relaxation, comfort, and functionality. Then you'll be well on your way to transforming your ordinary home into a stress-free oasis that you look forward to spending time in with your family and friends.
When designing your serene home sanctuary, it's always best to start out with a comfortable and stylish bed. Your bed should feel fabulous and look attractive to give you the rejuvenating experience you deserve every time you lie down on it.
Of course, beauty and comfort are subjective. Your personal preferences will help determine which type of bed you bring home. That being said, here are a few tips from the Star Furniture pros that can help you make the process of creating your dream bed easier. Check them out:
Whether you're lounging in your bedroom, enjoying a meal around your dining room table, or entertaining guests in your living room, having a variety of comfy places to have a seat in your tranquil home is essential. Stylish seating arrangements can certainly make your living spaces look attractive, but at the end of the day, the way your armchairs, dining room chairs, sofas, and other seating arrangements look don't matter if they don't feel cozy when you sit on them.
When looking for seating options that invite you to take a load off, keep your eyes open for soft upholstery, plush cushions, and a supportive design. Trying different chairs and sofas out for yourself in person is the best way to ensure that each seat offers optimal comfort and support. Sometimes buying a new chair, sofa, or sectional from a trusted showroom, such as Star Furniture, isn't an option. In this case, be sure to read plenty of reviews from verified customers to guarantee that your new seating arrangement isn't merely charming but also cozy and relaxing. Check out these furnishings from Star Furniture that are sure add a touch of comfort to any space in your home:
If you're striving to create living spaces that feel calm and tranquil, the light sources you incorporate into your home matter. Consider that not every lighting solution is created equally. Some fixtures offer light that is bright and harsh while others create a soft, warm ambiance. To make sure that every area of your home is properly lit, it's important to identify what each space will be used for. You won't need the same type of lighting in your kitchen where you need to see clearly as you cook as you will in your bedroom where you go to rest and relax.
Here are some tips from the trusted team at Star Furniture to help you enhance the serenity of your home with the right lighting solutions:
A tranquil home is a happy home. Taking the time to design a space that feels like a sanctuary can support a sense of ease in all areas of your life. Regardless of your interior decorating style, anyone can create a home that feels like a personalized retreat with the right pieces of furniture. Check […]
Do you ever feel like you need a pick-me-up to put a little pep in your step? Maybe you have your eye on a new pair of boots for the fall, a great pair of jeans that fit just right, or the hottest new lipstick hue? We get it. It's nice to feel refreshed after mixing up our appearance a bit, and our homes are no exception. Sometimes our homes need easy pick-me-ups that are fabulous and fresh to make everyday living and entertaining fun again. Just as a great pair of jeans or the right shade of lipstick can make us feel like a new person, it doesn't take much to bring out the best in our living spaces either.
Whether you want to amp up the functionality of your home, or button-up the design of a space, the decorating pros at Star Furniture have you covered. We've weighed in on five fabulous pieces that can take any room in your home to the next level. Check them out:
When it comes to creating comfortable seating arrangements in your home, your living room sofa or sectional is usually the top priority. It's true that having a quality sofa or sectional is an essential element for any family room, but it certainly shouldn't be the only one. Armchairs are perhaps one of the most underappreciated home furnishings that can have the biggest impact on living rooms, bedrooms, home offices, and dining rooms alike. Along with providing a comfy place to perch, armchairs can add much-needed color, texture, and visual intrigue to rooms that could use an inviting touch.
Of course, not every armchair is created equally. With so many styles to choose from, finding the right one for your home can be an overwhelming task. Here are some questions from the Star Furniture design experts that can help you find the right armchair to enhance any room in your home:
Once you've found the perfect chair that meets your style and comfort needs, why not get two? Pairing two armchairs side by side may be just the thing your room needs to feel balanced and polished while providing an additional comfy space for your loved ones to sit.
There's a reason that the kitchen has been lovingly referred to as the "heart of the home." No matter how cozy and inviting your living room may be, family and guests alike always seem to make their way into the kitchen to enjoy food, conversation, and fun. Because the kitchen is the area of the home where so much life unfolds (think: cooking, entertaining, and catching up), it's important to add elements that make this space more conducive for these activities. One furnishing that should find a home in every kitchen, regardless of its size or style, is kitchen bar or counter swivel stools. These must-haves are as comfortable as they are practical, providing the perfect spot for anyone to have a seat, chat, and enjoy a bite to eat, oftentimes while the host is busy working among the pots and the pans.
If you're going to bring in a few bar or counter stools to your kitchen, you might as well get ones that swivel. This is especially nice for open floor plans where kitchens, dining rooms, and living rooms meet. Your family and friends can easily turn from one room to the next without missing a beat. Best of all, modern kitchen bar and counter stools come in an array of styles ranging from simple and understated to bold and chic to perfectly complement any home decor style. Here are some of our favorites at Star Furniture:
Of course, the furniture and accessories that you use to decorate your home will have a big impact on the way that each room looks and feels, but there's one element that can ensure that your hard work of carefully coordinating furnishings, light fixtures, and knick-knacks pays off: wall art. The decor that you choose to adorn your walls will ultimately make or break the overall aesthetic of the space. Each piece should complement the surrounding decor used within the space, including color scheme, furniture style, and scale of the room.
It goes without saying that the artwork or other wall hangings you display should look great, but it's also important to consider how you hang them. The perfect photograph or painting may not have the positive impact you envisioned if hung too high, too low, or in the wrong location. Fortunately, the trusted Star Furniture design experts are here to show you how simple hanging wall art in your home like a professional truly is. Check out these tips:
Few things are as important as getting a good night's sleep, night after night. Along with helping you function optimally and feel your best, quality sleep is an essential part of living a long, healthy life. While many things contribute to how well (or poorly) you sleep, your mattress has a major role to play. A comfortable mattress promotes restful sleep while an uncomfortable mattress can make it difficult to fall asleep or sleep through the night without interruption.
Plenty of homeowners put off replacing their uncomfortable mattresses because it's not something that's noticed or appreciated by visitors. You may not get compliments on a great mattress from guests in the same way you would for a new sofa or dining room set, but don't cheat yourself! Your family and friends are sure to notice the new and improved you that is happier and healthier thanks to a great night's sleep. Keep these tips in mind when it's time to replace your old, poor quality, or uncomfortable mattress with one you'll look forward to sleeping on:
Sometimes, the real star of a room is more of a supporting player. If you're looking for an easy, cost-effective way to take virtually any area of your home to the next level, consider adding a bench. At first glance, benches may not seem special in terms of adding dramatic visual appeal or over-the-top comfort, but once you've added a bench (or three) to your living spaces, you'll wonder how you ever functioned without them before. Here are some of the Star Furniture designers' favorite ways to enhance the style and comfort of their homes with a fabulous bench:
You don't have to spend a lot of money or undergo a major home renovation to create living spaces that are beautiful, comfortable, and functional. Oftentimes, incorporating a simple, affordable piece of furniture can make a world of difference in transforming your ordinary house into a home. The trick is being able to recognize which pieces of furniture are the ones that can help you achieve the result you have in mind.
At Star Furniture, we're proud to offer an amazing selection of quality furnishings that can enhance every area of your home, including armchairs, counter stools, wall art, mattresses, benches, and more. Our trusted interior designers have years of decorating expertise that can guide you on the journey of creating the end result of your dreams without breaking the bank or taking months to complete. Check out our social media sites to find inspiration for your next decorating project, then stop by our convenient showroom location to get started. We look forward to helping you make your home shine!
If you enjoyed this blog, check out this one about how to get your living room ready for holiday entertainment.
Do you ever feel like you need a pick-me-up to put a little pep in your step? Maybe you have your eye on a new pair of boots for the fall, a great pair of jeans that fit just right, or the hottest new lipstick hue? We get it. It’s nice to feel refreshed after […]
Families come in all shapes and sizes. In fact, many American homes are populated with multiple generations all residing under the same roof. Perhaps in your home, there's a baby in a bassinet along with a few older kids. Add in parents with busy careers as well as a grandparent or two and it's easy to see that there's a lot of life being lived by a wide range of individuals and experiences. How wonderful!
Having family members young and old interacting on a daily basis in the same house can provide an array of benefits, including passing on family traditions and creating unforgettable memories. On the other hand, having multiple generations living in one home creates the need to decorate your living spaces in a way that ensures that everyone feels at home. From newborn babies to Boomers and everyone in between, it's important to put together rooms that are accommodating and functional while still being stylish and inviting. Sounds impossible? It's not! Here are the 5 key decorating tips from the experienced designers at Star Furniture that can help you along the way.
With so many different personalities living under one roof, you can expect everyone to have their own preferences in terms of what colors and styles they'd like to see used in your home decor. Do yourself a favor and avoid the hassle of trying to appease everyone by dressing your shared living spaces in a neutral color palette. Starting with a blank slate, so to speak, can offer a variety of advantages, especially in a multigenerational home. Some of these include:
The versatility that comes with using a neutral color scheme can also make decorating easier. Start by choosing a paint color for your walls that can be incorporated throughout your home. Consider choosing a light neutral color, such as cream or gray, to help every room feel bright while creating a cohesive look from one room to the next. Then, choose furniture and upholstery that complement the wall color while still sticking to a neutral palette. A good way to accomplish this is by using different shades of the same color, which can create depth without overwhelming the space.
Once the many factors of the room have been chosen, you can spice things up with accessories. If you'd like to stick with an understated color scheme, bringing in patterns and textures through pieces, such as pillows, area rugs, and blankets, can enhance the visual intrigue of each room. On the other hand, these same pieces can be used to add more noticeable shades of color if you want to make a brighter statement.
Star Furniture’s pro tip: When you need inspiration on what colors to use within a space, choose a piece of art to act as your guide. Pick two or three colors from the piece to use as the foundation of the room, a supporting color, and finally an accent color. This will help you stay focused when shopping for pieces that work together and will create a result that every generation is sure to love.
Having the opportunity for multiple generations to interact and make memories together is one of the biggest benefits of families living in one home. For this reason, it's important to cultivate and decorate spaces where it's easy and comfortable for people of all ages to spend time together. Fortunately, the open floor plans that are found in many modern homes are perfect for multigenerational living. With living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens connected, it's easy for grandparents, parents, and children to cook, chat, and play together on any given day.
While we love open floor plans for their spacious, open, and inviting atmosphere, there's no denying that they can sometimes be a challenge to decorate. The good news is that the trusted designers at Star Furniture are here to help. Check out these multifunctional furnishings that can help your family make the most of your open-concept living spaces:
No matter how much your family enjoys spending time together, every person should have their own personal space to call their own. Spending time together as a family is great, but private downtime is important, too. Your bedroom should be a space where you feel comfortable, are able to relax, and that highlights your unique taste. It's the one area of the home where you don't have to compromise on the features that are meaningful to you. Likewise, your children's and parents' bedrooms should be focused on their needs and preferences.
With this in mind, it's worth taking the time to create bedrooms that are relaxing, comfortable, and personalized to the individual. Here are some helpful tips from the Star Furniture experts that will make every person in your house look forward to going to their room, regardless if they're nine or ninety.
Your home should be comfortable and accessible for every individual who lives in it, regardless of what their age or physical ability may be. Designing your living spaces with inclusivity and accessibility in mind means being empathetic to your other family members and anyone who has the pleasure of visiting your home. If you think that you have to compromise style in the name of curating more accessible rooms, think again. Contemporary home design has a lot to offer in terms of embracing modern style while simultaneously meeting the functional needs of a wide range of people. Check out these decorating ideas that are as aesthetically appealing as they are functional:
Let's face it. It's easy for clutter to build up in any home, but especially in multigenerational homes where people of all ages are continuously on the move. With so many different needs, preferences, and lifestyles, you can bet that things will begin to accumulate quickly causing your house to feel messy and crowded if you're not careful.
So what's the secret to maintaining living spaces that are beautiful, comfortable, and functional without hounding your family members who bring home a new shopping bag or inevitably leave their belongings strewn about? Providing ample storage solutions, of course! When everything in your house has a "home," it's easy for folks to know exactly where to find it when they need it and, most importantly, where to return it when they're through. With this in mind, the more storage space you provide in your multigenerational home, the better. Check out these storage tips from the design experts at Star Furniture:
At the end of the day, your home should be a place that honors and serves the needs of your family. That's why the design team at Star Furniture is committed to helping every family create living spaces that meet their unique style, comfort, and functional needs. As a furniture company that's over a century old, we can appreciate decorating with furniture that accommodates people from every generation. Our extensive expertise in serving people of all ages, interests, and backgrounds is ingrained in Star Furniture's DNA.
If you're interested in revamping your living spaces to maximize the comfort of everyone who lives in your home, the trusted Star Furniture design team is here to help. We can help you make smart decorating decisions that will create harmony at home for everyone. To start your multigenerational home decor journey with quality bedroom furniture and more, visit us online or stop by our showroom today. Together, we can celebrate everything life has to offer in living spaces that are designed with everyone in mind!
If you enjoyed this blog, read this one about 5 questions to ask yourself before custom ordering a sofa.
Families come in all shapes and sizes. In fact, many American homes are populated with multiple generations all residing under the same roof. Perhaps in your home, there’s a baby in a bassinet along with a few older kids. Add in parents with busy careers as well as a grandparent or two and it’s easy […]
Do you know where your children are? If you create a welcoming space filled with comfortable pieces from Star Furniture for your kids and their friends, the answer will usually be "at home." Whether you've always dreamed of having a home that's a lively center for community or you're looking to balance safety and independence for your older children and teenagers, designing a ‘hangout house’ is a great solution. These homes are the go-to destination when your kids and their friends are looking for a space to socialize - and sometimes even study. Having this kind of space helps your kids develop their independence and have a sense of freedom while also having trusted adults around if they need them.
A hangout house to call their own will encourage your kids to spend more time with their friends and build those relationships at a time when loneliness and isolation are major concerns. Ultimately, designing this type of home is about intentionally creating community. Welcoming your kids' friends without being overbearing makes your house a place where they'll want to spend more time. Your attitude and approach are the most important, but thoughtful design helps set the tone. Creating a fun and functional space that balances access to the rest of the house with privacy lets you support your kids by becoming their social destination.
So, you want to be THE neighborhood destination for your kids and their friends? Start with these tips from the design experts at Star Furniture and you’ll be on your way to hangout house status in no time!
A hangout house is a space for kids to have fun together, and the design should reflect that. Some attention to your entryway and the outside of your house can help create a welcoming feel from the first moment your kids and their friends arrive. If you have a front porch, add a porch swing to offer an option outdoor hangout space. These details send the message to neighbors and guests that you're eager to socialize and welcome them into your home. When it comes to paint and rug colors in the entryway, warmer tones tend to feel especially welcoming for visiting friends.
In the hangout space itself, make sure to get your child or teen's input. They're more likely to use it if it reflects their own personality. This is also a great opportunity for kids to start developing and exploring their own decor and interior design tastes. Bold paint colors and accent walls are a great way to make the space feel fun while being relatively easy to update as your child's preferences change. Shop together for posters and wall art that highlight your child's favorite music, movies and tv shows. If you opt for a neutral paint color, add pops of color elsewhere, like a patterned rug or playful pouf.
Yes, your kids deserve a well-designed, designated space to spend time. However, you'll want to avoid any furniture pieces that make the space feel too precious. A hangout house won't feel relaxing if kids are worried about staining upholstery or breaking fragile decor. Look for washable rugs and couches in easy-to-clean fabrics, and avoid glass coffee tables that attract smudges and fingerprints.
Older kids and teens both want and need their own space. Keeping this in mind, look for a space where your kids and their friends can enjoy some privacy and independence. Depending on the size and layout of your home, you may need to get creative to find the ideal spot for your designated hangout space.
If you have a playroom your kids used when they were younger, repurposing this room is a natural choice. A finished basement, or part of one, is also a great choice since being on a different floor gives kids and teens plenty of privacy. Many households have formal dining rooms that they use rarely, if ever. If you're one of them, consider repurposing this room into a hangout space that will see much more traffic. An infrequently used guest room can also work well. Swapping a traditional bed for a Murphy bed can give kids and teens space to gather while keeping the room available for overnight guests when you have them.
Designing a hangout house doesn't require an extra room in the home. If you don't have the extra space, making your child's room more hangout-friendly is also a great solution. Adding more seating is usually the most important design update here. Depending on the size of the room, you might be able to add a small couch or armchair. A compact ottoman or bedroom bench is a space-saving option that usually offers additional storage. If you don't have much extra space for new furniture, kids are often happy to sit on the floor. Add a thick and comfortable rug and plenty of throw pillows or poufs to make this a comfortable choice.
If you designed your child's bedroom when they were younger and haven't updated it since, turning it into a hangout space is a good opportunity for a refresh. New paint, pillows, and wall art can help turn the room into a space your child is happy to welcome their friends into.
Designating a specific hangout space isn't just about privacy. It also helps control clutter since your children and their guests will have a place to leave their belongings. Keeping everything contained in one room or area means the kids can be as messy or tidy as they'd like within their own space. Ideally, this will reduce conflict over leaving a mess in shared parts of the house.
Privacy is great, but your kids shouldn't feel cut off from the rest of the household. Growing kids and teens usually have big appetites, so snacks are a great way to bring them out of their separate space. Easy access to a selection of snacks makes kids feel welcome, and visits to the kitchen are a good time to check in without invading the designated hangout area.
You'll want to think about both the snacks themselves and the dining space you offer. Depending on your preferences, you might invite visiting kids to stay for dinner, serve homemade baked goods, or let your kids serve themselves from the kitchen. Designating a bin or shelf for snacks can be an easy way to let your kids eat as much as they'd like without accidentally depleting your dinner ingredients.
Especially if you'd rather keep food out of the hangout space, be sure to offer a comfortable and casual place to eat. Lining your kitchen island with bar stools creates a convenient spot for snacks and quick meals. A breakfast nook in or near your kitchen can double as a place for teens to snack. If you'll be using your kitchen table, make sure the chairs are comfortable, and add seat cushions if they aren't.
Each friend group and individual kid is unique, so consider how your kids and teens like to spend their time and choose furniture accordingly. Like with decor, try to make this a collaborative process with your kids. They're the experts when it comes to what features their friends are most likely to use. You'll also need to consider the size of your space. If you have a large finished basement, you might be able to offer several areas with furniture for different activities. In a smaller space, you'll need to be strategic about choosing furniture that works for multiple purposes.
Seating is always a good place to start. Ideally, offer a mix of seating, from big comfy sectional sofas to smaller chairs that are easy to move around. This gives the group a natural spot to gather and relax along with the flexibility to adjust the setting arrangements as needed.
If your kids enjoy watching movies, TV shows, or sports with their friends, consider setting up a home theater. First, set up either a projector and screen or a regular TV, then add lots of seating. Depending on the room, you might choose one or two sofas, a row of armchairs, or a set of reclining home theater seats.
Check out these options for a functional hangout house, depending on your child’s hobbies:
Regardless of their specific interests, today's kids and teens almost certainly care about gadgets and wifi access. Make sure the wifi signal is strong in the room they'll be using and add a wifi extender if it isn't. The room should have plenty of outlets for everyone to charge phones and other devices as needed.
Flexible lighting is also important when designing a hangout house. Especially in a space like a finished basement that doesn't get natural light, offer enough lights to keep the space from feeling gloomy. Opt for multiple lamps, a mix of overhead and task lighting fixtures, and dimmer switches to give the kids plenty of lighting options. Kids should be able to easily switch between bright lighting for homework and low lighting for watching a movie.
The most important thing about a hangout house is creating community. If you're taking the time to design an intentional space for your kids to spend time with their friends, you probably care about building strong relationships, both for your kids and yourself. Making other parents feel welcome in your home helps create and strengthen your friendships.
Until you have teenagers who drive, parents will usually be picking their kids up when they're done hanging out at your house. Offering a cup of coffee and having a comfortable spot to sit down and chat for a few minutes can go a long way toward making your home feel like a social hub for you as well as your kids. Whether you opt for stylish and comfortable stools at your kitchen island or a sofa across from a coffee table, thoughtful design choices can help you form and nourish parent friendships.
Hosting informal gatherings of both parents and kids is also a great way to create community and reinforce the idea that your home is a welcoming place. A backyard fire pit is an easy excuse to have people over in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere that's fun for all ages. Make your living room or other entertaining spaces as welcoming for other adults as the hangout space is for the kids using similar ideas. Provide plenty of comfortable seating that suits the type of gathering, and choose decor that reflects your own personality and preferences.
Making your home into a place where your kids can comfortably hangout with their friends lets them be independent in a safe and encouraging space. By designing a hangout house, you’re signaling to your child that their creativity and expressiveness matter! An inspired and open-minded approach makes this kind of design possible, but so does the right furniture. Whether you're designing a room from scratch or updating an outdated space, Star Furniture has the stylish and functional selection you're looking for. Start shopping with us today!
If you liked this blog, check out this one about how to start out on your redecorating project.
Do you know where your children are? If you create a welcoming space filled with comfortable pieces from Star Furniture for your kids and their friends, the answer will usually be “at home.” Whether you’ve always dreamed of having a home that’s a lively center for community or you’re looking to balance safety and independence […]
There's something about experiencing a new beginning that makes anything feel possible. Whether it be the start of a new career, the changing of seasons, or moving to a new city, embracing the transitions of life can be both exciting and gratifying. Just as people, places, and stages of life are ever-evolving, your home shouldn't stay stagnant either. Home should be a place where you feel safe, fulfilled, and at peace. Most people don't invest the time and attention into upkeeping their living spaces like they deserve.
If you're reading this blog, you must be ready to begin your redecorating journey. Congratulations on recognizing that you deserve to be surrounded by a home that's beautiful and comfortable! While redecorating should be fun, it can also be overwhelming. Fortunately, streamlining the process so that you can achieve the result you have in mind quickly and affordably doesn't have to be complicated. Check out these helpful tips from the design team at Star Furniture to help you move forward with redecorating your home with confidence!
With the internet at your fingertips, the possibilities of finding decorating inspiration are truly endless. From lifestyle magazines and interior design blogs to social media sites and, of course, furniture stores, there's no shortage of ways to find inspiration for what home decor styles you like (and which ones you don't). Don't be afraid to browse social media to dream a little bit and imagine the backdrop for your life that you'd ideally like to have.
With so many options, searching online can sometimes feel like going down a rabbit hole. When this happens, too many ideas can lead to decision paralysis. To help prevent your brain from shutting down from an endless supply of ideas, take notes of a few of the things that catch your eye (think: paint colors, a piece of furniture, living room layout, etc.), then quit while you're ahead. The internet is great for decorating inspiration. Spoiler alert: ultimately and ideally, it's best to shop in person! Read on!
After you get an idea of the direction you're headed from browsing through sites on the web, it's helpful to have one place where you can organize your ideas. This is where Pinterest comes in. Along with narrowing down your search of particular rooms and pieces, such as farmhouse dining room sets or relaxing bedroom color schemes, Pinterest is the perfect place to save and sort what you find.
Not only can you organize your findings for specific rooms in your home, but also individual projects, such as flooring or light fixtures. And unlike a notepad or binder that could be difficult to keep up with or maintain, you can access your Pinterest account anywhere right on your phone, making it a convenient way to add to and alter as needed. Best of all, when it's time to go furniture shopping or let others know what design ideas you have in mind, all of your inspirations are only a click away.
As fabulous as finding ideas online can be, doing an online search will never be as effective as stepping into a furniture store and feeling the pieces for yourself. After all, when you're in a brick-and-mortar store, you can really understand the quality and comfort that a particular piece has by seeing, touching, and feeling it firsthand. This simply can't be accomplished through a screen. Because of this, it's a good idea to go old school and visit a store that you trust after you have an idea of where your project is headed from looking online.
At Star Furniture, our design team is trained to help clients bring their decorating dreams to life regardless of where they're at in their decorating journey or how much design experience they have. Whether you have lots of inspiration to build on or you're starting from square one, we can assist you in finding furniture and accessories that will work for you.
It's great to plan and prepare for your redecorating journey, and it's even better to have expert guidance along the way to support good decisions. It happens to first-time decorators and seasoned professionals alike. When you hit a bump in the road and are uncertain about how to move forward smoothly, it's probably time to seek professional help. While many people think that working with an interior designer will cost too much money, this is often a mistake.
In reality, working with an interior designer can actually save you plenty of time and money! You’ll feel less stressed about all of the moving parts of your redecorating project when you bring in a professional. Better still, professional designers have years of experience and training that may allow them to suggest techniques that you might not have thought of on your own. They also often have access to resources that the everyday person would have a harder time finding. These are just a few of the many reasons that working with an interior designer on any design project big or small is sure to be an investment that pays for itself for years to come!
Every redecorating project is unique. Some can be simple and straightforward while others may be expansive and complicated. If you'd love to tackle a big redesign project, such as a whole-home makeover, don't let the size of the undertaking prevent you from going after it. Sometimes, getting started is the hardest part. It's important to remember that redecorating several rooms in one home doesn't all have to happen at once; the journey can take place in steps.
A good place to start for individuals who are new to decorating is to focus on a single room or even a single feature of a room at a time. For instance, rather than trying to give the entire interior of your house a fresh coat of paint, why not start with your entryway and work your way through? Or if your top priority is to replace your living room furniture, then don't look for a new bedroom set until you've picked out the sofa and side tables you need first.
Taking the time to alter one small area or a single item at a time can help you build confidence as you watch the transformation unfold bit by bit. Before you know it, many small projects will come together to create one beautiful home that you'll be proud to call your own.
If you think that decorating a space in your home is as simple as filling it with furniture and accessories that you love, think again. While beautiful decor and comfortable pieces are certainly an important part of creating rooms that you'll look forward to spending time in, it's equally important to consider how you intend to use the space before you move forward with your decorating plans.
Keep these questions in mind to help you define the space that you're going to redecorate:
When it comes to creating a decorating strategy, there are many factors to consider before you break out the paint brushes or bring home new furnishings. One of the most important things to keep in mind is your timeline. Are you striving to have a project complete before a specific date, such as a holiday or when family will be visiting? Or perhaps an area of your house needs to be revamped for practicality's sake, such as turning a guest bedroom into a baby's nursery. Whether this is the case for you or you don't want to be stuck working on a home design project indefinitely, it's a good idea to give yourself a timeline. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
Before diving into your redecorating project, it’s best to set a budget. Whether you’re looking to stick to a strict spend, or you’re OK with a ballpark estimate, setting a budget will help to naturally guide you through the process of redecorating. You’ll be able to narrow down your options for each piece, and, once the project is completed, you’ll feel good about sticking to your decided spend.
At Star Furniture, we're proud to offer a large selection of quality furnishings that can work within any budget. If you haven't been furniture shopping in a while, you may not know what to expect in terms of how much items cost. Talking with a design professional at Star Furniture can advise you on how much money you'll need to achieve the look you have in mind.
You don't have to be a professional interior designer to decorate the living spaces in your home like one. Regardless of how much design experience you have, you can bring your home decor dreams to life with a little planning and some help from the experienced design team at Star Furniture. Along with guiding you on how to create a timeline, setting a budget, and recommending how to curate rooms that are stylish and practical, we're happy to offer an extensive selection of quality furniture, including sectionals, tables, wall art, and more. Visit us on our social media sites to find the perfect inspiration for your next home decorating project then stop by our showroom to get the process started. We can't wait to help you transform every room in your home from ordinary to extraordinary!
If you enjoyed this blog, check out this one about redesigning a home as an empty-nester.
There’s something about experiencing a new beginning that makes anything feel possible. Whether it be the start of a new career, the changing of seasons, or moving to a new city, embracing the transitions of life can be both exciting and gratifying. Just as people, places, and stages of life are ever-evolving, your home shouldn’t […]
The nest may be empty but the dream's not gone! When the kids have all moved out on their own, it's time to think about how to revamp your home as you transition into a new phase of life. Luckily, the idea of the "dream house" that we all crave isn't a fixed one. It's ever-changing and evolving as our own dreams and lifestyles do the same. This is something to celebrate!
Just as WE are changing, so too, our dream homes need to keep up. Who doesn't remember their childhood bedroom, dorm room, or first apartment? While it may have been ideal then, it probably doesn't seem so glamorous now. With this idea in mind, don't be afraid to reconsider the overall style of your home as you embark on a new season of life. Check out these design tips from the experts at Star Furniture to reimagine your dream house as an empty nester.
When we're raising families, the design style of our homes is often dictated by practicality and function rather than aesthetics. After all, no one in their right mind would invest in expensive, high-maintenance furnishings with toddlers and babies in tow. Once you're home alone, though, you have a chance to discover your personal decorating vibe and preferred color palette. Are you drawn to cool, calming colors or bright, bold ones? Do you prefer chic, modern decor or something a bit more rustic? Don't be afraid to decorate your home in a way that reflects your individual style. If you aren't sure where to start, working with an experienced interior design pro at Star Furniture can help. Like a decorating therapist, they can guide you on your personal interior design journey.
If you've had children in your house for as long as you can remember, chances are that you've got a few family-friendly pieces that are still hanging around. Sure, they're probably holding onto some wonderful memories, but they're likely not as useful in terms of meeting your everyday needs as they once were. If your kid-friendly furniture has passed its point of expiration, it's time to let it go. Now is the time to invest in furniture that meets your current needs and, most importantly, brings you joy. Just think, when you have the dining room table set you've always wanted or plush sectional and eye-catching accent chairs, you'll look forward to entertaining and relaxing in your revamped dream home.
Just because your children don't live in your house anymore doesn't mean that it shouldn't still feel like home. Bringing in fresh decor is a great way to make the most of your new phase of life, but that doesn't mean that you can't honor your history while celebrating the things to come. Designing spaces that feel fresh yet familiar is as simple as mixing the old and the new. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
If you're ready for something new and are hanging on to family furniture, antiques, or even heirlooms, it may be time for those treasured items to be passed down to the next generation - your kids! Oftentimes, we don't buy new furniture because our current pieces still have some life left in them, especially wood furniture. Give yourself permission to mix things up and decorate your home in a way that makes you feel proud. Your children get to inherit quality pieces that are meaningful and you get to redesign your ordinary living spaces. Everyone wins!
Your children are feathering their own nests. Their former bedrooms don't have to be shrines to the past. Encourage your kids to take their memorabilia into their own homes. In other words, when your kids have moved out, it's time to declutter the odds and ends that are taking up space. Now's the time to reimagine how this newfound space for your new dream house could be used to suit your desires. Perhaps you'd love to have a sewing room, a craft room, or a dedicated home office. The sky's the limit in terms of how you can transform your kid's old bedroom into a practical space for yourself. Just remember to get rid of the old to make room for the new.
As you're eagerly repurposing your kids' bedrooms, remember they sometimes come back (just like a boomerang). Likewise, you're sure to have more visitors now that you have fewer family responsibilities. With this in mind, it's a good idea to create rooms that are multipurpose. Sure, you can transform their old bedroom into a study or home gym, but be sure to include furnishings that can also be beneficial when an overnight guest arrives, such as a sleeper sofa. While this space may not be used often, it's important that it's comfortable when it is being used, so investing in a quality sofa bed is a must!
Watching your kids move out can be a bittersweet experience. You're happy for them to make their way in the world, but sad to see them go. Just remember, this too shall pass and you, too, have been given an opportunity to grow and evolve. As your children establish their own homes and families, you can create a beautiful, comfortable space for them to visit in the future while enjoying your own empty nester dream home.
To ensure that you're well-prepared to navigate all of the changes and decisions that come with reimaging your home without children, the experienced designers at Star Furniture are here to help you every step of the way. Visit us online or stop by our furniture stores to meet with one of our experts to get started on bringing your dream home to life!
If you still need some pointers, read our blog about how to design your very own Dream House.
The nest may be empty but the dream’s not gone! When the kids have all moved out on their own, it’s time to think about how to revamp your home as you transition into a new phase of life. Luckily, the idea of the “dream house” that we all crave isn’t a fixed one. It’s […]
Pastel color palettes: folks either love 'em or hate 'em. At Star Furniture, we've seen home decor color trends come and go. While we love every color of the rainbow, the trick to decorating like a pro is not using every color at once, including the "new pastels." These contemporary shades are made up of light elusive sherbert-like hues kissed with just a bit of color. Pale pinks, light lavenders, powdery blues, pale peaches, buttery yellows and the like can feel like a breath of fresh air for spring, but what about the rest of the year? Your home's color palette should be appropriate all year long. Luckily, there are ways to embrace the new pastels 365 days of the year. Check out these tips from the design team at Star Furniture to learn how.
So you're smitten with pastels. Before you begin considering pastel paint, art, accessories and even furniture to bring your color vision to life, it's best to choose which colors you plan on incorporating into a particular space. Just as you wouldn't use every color of the rainbow to decorate your living room or bedroom, it's also not a good idea to go overboard with a wide variety of hues of pastels in the same area. Instead, focus on a few of your favorites to highlight throughout a specific room. The result is sure to feel polished, bright, and inviting. Not sure which pastels you prefer? Looking at magazines, home improvement shows, and, of course, social media sites is a great way to find examples of paint colors, furniture, and finished rooms that you'd like to see in your own home.
One of the best things about pastels is that they're incredibly versatile. Along with adding a whisper of color to one space or enhancing the visual intrigue of another, pastels are subtle enough to use in place of traditional neutrals. In fact, used with a light touch, pastels are the new neutrals. Because of this, they can effortlessly put a personal touch on virtually any area of your home while still creating a clean, sophisticated aesthetic. With this in mind, don't be afraid to replace your grey bedspread with a muted blue one or your beige curtain panels with dusty lilac ones instead. You may be surprised by the improvement that replacing overused neutrals with refreshing pastels can have on the look and feel of your space.
There's something about walking into a room adorned with creamy pastel walls that can instantly put you in a good mood. Pastels make fabulous background colors for any room thanks to their subtle brightness that allows them to complement a variety of home decor styles while maintaining an open, airy ambiance. Looking for inspiration? Here are some of our favorite pastel picks to color any room in your home:
If you're drawn to the understated beauty of pastel palettes, but aren't quite ready to go all in with a pretty-in-pink bedroom or a creamy mint kitchen, think baby steps. Introducing pastel accents may be the way to go. The good news is that there are endless ways to make a big impact on the ambiance of your home with a few pastel accessories. Check out these simple ideas to dip your toe into the pastel pool with home decor accents:
Sometimes, designing a room that looks thoughtful, balanced, and stylish is easier said than done. If you have a pastel vision in mind but are having a difficult time bringing it to fruition, using a piece of artwork as your inspiration may be helpful. Start by choosing a painting, print, or other wall hanging that has a variety of eye-catching pastel colors to pull from. This piece can give you a concrete idea of what hues you're decorating with, what other colors pair well with them, and the overall vibe you have in mind.
Star’s pro tip: Select one or two pastels from the art to incorporate throughout the space with everything from table lamps and vases to pillows and books. Once you have a few pieces of home decor that complement the art, hang it on the wall to see the finished product instantly come together.
Pastels are both on trend and timeless. Pastels are the colors of nature. They're also all over the runway. The process of finding, pairing and balancing a pastel palette in home decor can be a bit tricky. Breathe a sigh of relief. You don't have to be a professional designer to whip up a perfect pastel decorating plan in your home.The trusted design team at Star Furniture are color experts that can help you navigate the nuances of color and find furnishings, accessories, and more to bring your dream pastel visions to life. Visit us today and chat with our design experts to find out more about decorating with pastels in your home.
Pastel color palettes: folks either love ’em or hate ’em. At Star Furniture, we’ve seen home decor color trends come and go. While we love every color of the rainbow, the trick to decorating like a pro is not using every color at once, including the “new pastels.” These contemporary shades are made up of […]
The way a home looks and feels is a reflection of the people who live in it. This means that whether your neighbor stops by unexpectedly or you're hosting overnight guests, it's worth considering the kind of impression your home will make. While you might not notice that pile of laundry that's been sitting in your living room chair or the way your bathroom smells, chances are that others will. With this in mind, it's a good idea to look at your home with fresh eyes. Check out these simple ways to instantly elevate your home so that when company comes over, you can greet them with a smile.
When it comes to enhancing the way your home looks, your entryway probably isn't the first place that comes to mind, but it should be! Your home's entryway is the first thing visitors see when they walk through your door and the last thing they'll encounter before leaving. Because of this, taking the time to put together an entrance that is as beautiful as it is functional is well worth the effort. Luckily, creating the perfect entryway is easier than it sounds. Here's how:
Nothing makes a home look worse than rooms that are filled with clutter. Along with causing them to appear messy and disorganized, cluttered spaces can make your home look dark, small, and crowded. The good news is that decluttering your living spaces is an easy, cost-effective way to give your home an instant facelift. Here are some tips to combat the clutter in your home before your guests arrive:
The way your home looks isn't the only factor to consider when trying to impress house guests; its scent can make or break the way a person feels about your place. If you aren't sure if your home smells unpleasant, ask a neighbor or friend to come by and give their honest opinion. For rooms that are prone to bad odors, such as the bathroom and kitchen, it's particularly important to consider how to keep them smelling fresh. Taking out the trash regularly and keeping the sinks clean is a great place to start. Likewise, adding a plug-in air freshener, an essential oil diffuser, or fresh flowers are all simple steps that can make a big impact on the way your home smells. And in a pinch, don't be afraid to open a window to let in some clean air before your guests arrive.
Never underestimate the impact that a few potted plants can have on the atmosphere of your home. If you're looking for an easy way to add a pop of color, bring in much-needed texture, or simply enhance the warmth and coziness of a particular space, you can't go wrong with investing in a houseplant or two. Along with being affordable and stylish, houseplants come in a variety of options to meet your specific decorating preferences and, of course, the level of commitment you're willing to put into maintaining plants. Don't have a green thumb? No problem! Even an artificial plant or two can go a long way in making your living room, bedroom, or kitchen look bright and inviting.
There's no doubt that the way you illuminate your home can dictate its entire ambiance. When your home is well-lit, it will appear bright, inviting, and open. On the other hand, if your home is poorly lit, it will probably feel dated, dreary, and small. For this reason, it's important to think about how you balance natural and artificial light sources in every room of your house. When thinking about how to best light up a room, consider what the space will be used for. Some rooms should be lit brightly, such as bathrooms and kitchens, while others would benefit from warm lighting, such as bedrooms and living rooms. Bringing in a combination of ambient, task, and accent lights can make each space feel balanced and polished. Finally, don't forget to maximize natural light as much as possible by not blocking windows and strategically placing mirrors to make each room feel bright and airy. The result will be a home that looks thoughtful and attractive.
While you may be able to close your laundry room door and hide the piles of unfolded laundry that you'd rather your guests not see when entertaining, there's one room that you simply can't avoid letting visitors take advantage of when they're in your house: the bathroom. Whether your bathroom is neat and tidy or leaves a lot to be desired, when your friends pop into the powder room, they'll discover the truth for themselves. If you struggle to maintain an orderly bathroom, taking steps to make the process easier for you may be helpful in keeping the task manageable rather than overwhelming. Here are some tips to try:
If you'd love to take your home to the next level, but don't know where to start, the experienced team at Star Furniture is here to help. Visit us online or check out our social media pages to find the inspiration you need to create living spaces that you'll be excited to show your guests!
The way a home looks and feels is a reflection of the people who live in it. This means that whether your neighbor stops by unexpectedly or you’re hosting overnight guests, it’s worth considering the kind of impression your home will make. While you might not notice that pile of laundry that’s been sitting in […]