Too many people want their home to look like someone else's. Shouldn't your home reflect who you are and what you love? Well, of course it should! If you're not sure how to express yourself through your decor, here are some ideas to give you the confidence you need to do just that.
Your Color
Don't be shy -- announce your favorite color by painting the walls a vibrant hue. Bedrooms and powder rooms are some of the best places to go bold with color.
Forget about what others may think and use your favorite colors in your home. Surrounding yourself with a fabulous color will make you a happy camper. Maybe it won't appeal to everyone, but who cares? They don't live there -- you do.
Your Art
Art is very personal, so express yourself in the art you buy for your home. If you are an artist yourself, that's even better. Make your home your own by displaying what you create.
Hang a group of your children's art on a single wall. You don't have to have them professionally matted and framed; just use paint a bunch of frames that are the same color. You can even tack up a few pictures with thumbtacks.
Your History
Display meaningful heirlooms in your bookcases or on tabletops. Incorporate a few important pieces that document your history into your bookcase, but make sure you use more books than accessories. Too many accessories makes for a cluttered and unfocused look.
Group and display your collections in an unexpected space, like this assembly of plates and trays in a homeowner's bathroom. So what if you're the only person you know with plates hanging in the loo?
Putting all of your collection in one place makes more of an impact than spreading pieces all around the room. This display of blue fish platters certainly draws attention.
Your Accessories
Don't hide the things you need and use on a daily basis. Displaying your jewelry or other accessories expresses who you are and what you like. Use a dress form to display your jewelry or scarf collection.
Display items in your home that remind you of the places you have been and the memories you have made. Do you love the seaside? Artfully display your beach finds in glass cloches, jars and vases.
Integrate your hobbies and recreation into your decor. Park or hang a bicycle in your family room, or hang a pair of ice skates or shoeshoes on the wall.
Related:
- Photos: Browse 30k bedroom photos
- Ideas: Choose the artwork that suits you
- Help: Find a designer in your area
Kristie Barnett, Color Expert, Interior Decorator, & Design Blogger (http://thedecorologist.com).