Do These Five Things To Instantly Elevate Your Home

I love a quick fix (who doesn’t?). With everything going on in my life, there usually isn’t time to tackle a big project. So when I’m looking to update a corner of my home, I’ll turn to some tried and true quick fixes I can guarantee will instantly elevate the space. And, bonus, they’re all super accessible and budget-friendly!

One. Update Your Furniture’s Hardware

One of the fastest ways to change a piece of furniture or cabinetry is to update the drawer pulls or knobs. It’s inexpensive and takes literally minutes. I love to mix old and new so this is a perfect way to add a contemporary element to an antique or vintage piece. Because this can often be an overlooked detail, using fresh knobs and pulls will quickly add that luxurious element that will bring the whole space together.

Designer Picks:

Two. Mix and Match Your Bedding

Good design is all about character. Matching bedding lacks personality. Instead of buying a duvet and pillow set, have some fun and play with textures and patterns. Go to Target or Home Goods and buy two different sets of sheets. My favorite patterns to mix are stripes and florals; they’re always chic and never go out of style. Then, use a fitted and top sheet from each set. Layer your pillows and blankets. Try to create a feeling of plushness; the best beds look they’re just asking to be jumped into!

Pro Tip: When mixing patterns, stick to the same color family (like neutrals) for a cohesive look.

Designer Picks:

Percale Striped Sheets

Gingham Sheets

Waffle Blanket

Toile Sheets

Three. Build Visual Interest With Asymmetry.

Visual interest is a phrase I often used when working with my residential clients. I like to describe it as the Ahhhhh Factor. Have you ever walked into a space, whether it be a restaurant, bar, or living room, and thought, Wow, that looks cool. This is visual interest! The human eye likes things to be just so. We like things neat, tidy, and all in a row. So what happens when things aren’t? The eye tries to fix it. It wants symmetry and will work to find it in chaos. Visual interest is created when the eye is working to make sense of what it sees.

So how can you do this in your home? It’s easy! Simply remove the symmetry. I find this easiest when decorating shelves, entry tables, any kind of styled surface. Use various heights, sizes, shapes, and volumes when arranging pieces. Group a tall object with a small one. Mismatched nightstands, seating areas, and randomly placed gallery walls are also great examples.

Asymmetry Inspiration:

Four. Introduce Natural Fibers and Textures

Jute and rattan aren’t just for coastal designs. Integrating these materials into your home is a great way to add some texture. They’re usually neutral colors so they won’t distract from the other textures, materials, and colors in your home. They also help to balance out more sophisticated pieces. A mix of high and low creates tension, tying back into creating visual interest.

Designer Picks:

Jute Rug

Seagrass Basket

Tufted Throw Pillow

Washed Linen Pillow Cover

Five. And While We’re Talking About Tension…

If you approach styling spaces with this approach I PROMISE, you will find success in all your designs. I like to think of tug-of-war: two opposing forces pulling on the rope. It’s a similar idea to “Opposites Attract.” Tension is the balance between strongly opposing elements. Light next to dark. Old and new. High shine and dull.

These conflicting elements will force “viewers to stop and take and take a closer look at your design and wonder what is subconsciously making them uncomfortable.”
Heron Printing & Graphics

Chances are, you already own pieces that will help build tension in your home! Place the black picture frame next to the white vase, or the gold candlestick holders next to the wood bowl. If you’re looking at an element, ask if an opposing force would help this item shine. If you don’t already own that special piece, head to the flea market or thrift store.

Tension Inspiration:

As always, don’t forget that design should be fun and a reflection of your personality. Enjoy the styling process and select pieces that will elevate your already gorgeous aesthetic. Comment below if you use any of these tips in your home and tag @theecbedit on Instagram with your transformation pics!