If you think it requires lots of planning and commitment to give your home a new look, think again. We got our favourite stylists, interior designers and reps from home decor brands to share their tips and ticks on updating the interior – all without undergoing a major renovation.
1. Update your upholstery
“Apart from breathing new life into your old furniture, upholstering also allows you to go green. Furthermore, you can re-stuff cushions, re-stain legs, and fix any broken parts when you send your piece for an upholstery service. The plethora of colours, textures, and patterns available means you can find the perfect textile to suit your home’s updated look. What’s not to love?” Jenny Lewis, owner of Bode
Image credit: Bode
2. Bring the outdoors in
“Welcoming the outdoors in instantly transforms it into a haven infused with wellness and vitality. Accomplish this by including greenery or flowers as part of your home’s decor. You can also pick accessories with nature-inspired motifs like a floral print cushion cover, seashells or coral ornaments, or even furnishings in your favourite shade of green for a burst of freshness,” Keda Albano, regional head of visual merchandising at COURTS
Image credit: COURTS
3. Create a feature wall with photos or artwork
“Wall decor – whether it’s a distinctive artwork or a display of photos – infuses interest into an interior without taking up precious floor space. What’s more, it’s a cinch to switch up the looks. Just remember that there are no rules when it comes to decorating walls. Try this: let your creativity shine through with a wall tableau comprising different shapes and elements arranged as one,” Rou Ying Lee,interior stylist at BoConcept & BoDesign
Image credit: BoConcept
4. Lighting can totally transform the mood of your home
“Lightings are magical. A mere flick of a switch transforms your abode immediately with a play of light and shadow. Invest in floor and table lamps, or light accessories equipped with adjustable colour temperature and brightness. This allows you to create different moods once the sun sets,” Joanne, designer at etch&bolts
Image credit: etch&bolts
5. Change up your window dressing
“When it comes to window dressing, your options are endless. So, take a step back and begin with its function in mind. Consider where your window treatment will be installed, and take into account its suitability in that room. Then, narrow it down according to your preferences and lifestyle needs, and lastly, ensure your covering of choice stays consistent with the interior theme and colour scheme,” Karmen Leong from The Curtain Boutique
Image credit: The Curtain Boutique
6. Soft furnishings can perk up a space
“An easy way to transform a tired room is with textiles. They make an impact with the littlest effort. What’s more, they help inject a warm and welcoming atmosphere into your home. Start with your favourite colour palette, and amass your collection of throws, cushions and rugs for a breath of fresh air,” Ping Ng, interior design manager at IKEA Tampines
Image credit: IKEA
This was adapted from an article originally published in the September 2017 issue of SquareRooms.
