Refresh a tired room

Thursday 7th August 2014

Once a room has been renovated, chances are the rest of your home’s interior will seem somewhat dated. Here are 6 less-than-extreme makeovers sure to add a fresh new feel.

1 Take a good, long look at the windows
Whether made-to-measure or ready-to-hang, curtains add charm and colour to windows. For a dramatic look, add 20 centimetres to the length and let them fall to the floor.

2 Give in to green
Plants and flowers are an essential part of every successful interior. Aromatic herbs in a kitchen window box will add zest to the room. Insufficient lighting a problem? The new generation of silk plants confounds even the skeptics.

3 Roll out the carpet
The mere presence of a rug can change the mood of a room. For winter months, give some thought to wool, with rich hues and Persian motifs. For spring and summer, opt instead for sisal, sea rush or bright-coloured cotton.

4 Change the frames on wall hangings
Largely because of their frames or mats, some artwork or photographs seem like they’re straight out of the ’60s or ’70s. Lend renewed life to your favourite works by changing the frames in favour of largersized models in darker wood.

5 Light the fire
Why not install an electric fireplace or a decorative mantel in your living room, dining room or bedroom? It’s an easy and original way to create a point of interest without giving up much floor space.

6 Replace the hardware
The easiest way to refresh your kitchen cupboards is to change the hardware. (In the rest of the house, you can change the door handles.) Gold, antique brass or veined brown evoke tradition, whereas steel, stainless steel and nickel make for a more modern look.