How to give your space a complete refresh, according to an interiors expert

Photo credit: Lilas Gh - Getty Images
Photo credit: Lilas Gh - Getty Images

It's January so even if we don't want to admit it, we've got new-year-new-me on the brain. It's cringey, obviously, but we can't help it. So, if you’re ready for a fresh start, whether that be career-wise or personally, there’s no better way to say hello to the new you than by giving your home a little refresh.

That's where Nadia McCowan Hill, Wayfair's resident Style Advisor, comes in. Here, she shares her best tips on budget-friendly, easy ways to transform your space ready for the year ahead.

Maximising light and space

Mirror mirror! One of the quickest ways to create the illusion of space is the addition of a large oversized mirror. Best placed opposite a window to reflect and bounce natural light, it will boost and revitalise any room.

The style of mirror you choose can also be transformational to refresh a space, from glamorous art deco to a boho-chic bamboo design that invites some warmth and sunshine.

Go faux

Our homes can often feel a little bare after the festivities with decorations and trees taken down, but greenery doesn't just have to be for Christmas. If you're not naturally green-fingered, a faux plant is the ideal solution, offering the same statement impact. From the bedroom, bathroom, home office and more, your space will be instantly lifted with large leafy houseplants or an indoor tree. In smaller spaces, make the most of window ledges and shelving for trailing plants.

Picture this

The Instagram trend for gallery walls shows no signs of slowing down in 2022 and the brilliant thing about them is they are quick to create without the need for paintbrushes or wallpapering.

A bare wall will be given a new lease of life with the addition of picture frames filled with your favourite photographs or a mix of wall art or poster prints for pops of colour. For a uniform look, choose frames in the same style and colour, with various sizes for added interest. Different styles and colours of frames will create a more eclectic vibe.

Crafty quick fixes

If you're in a blank canvas new build or you're renting and want to make some changes without making them permanent, then you need to know about peel and stick tiles! A brilliant way to make a quick impact and put your own stylish stamp on kitchens or bathrooms, there are plenty of styles and colours to choose from.

They can be cut to size with scissors and a cutter, so hardly any tools are needed, and can be easily applied without bubbles and removed without leaving any residue. They can also be reused, making them a great purchase to take with you if you're a regular renter.

Vertical styling

New Year is the traditional time to clear the clutter and energise rooms with a furniture reshuffle. Wall and display shelves will provide some extra storage without taking away any floor space. Sometimes, less is definitely more, and displaying fewer items can offer more impact. Floating shelves offer a cost-effective option to keep desks free of clutter, and are a convenient and stylish way to display scented candles and plants.

The ground work

One of the simplest ways to overhaul a room without a trip to the DIY store is investing in a new rug or hallway runner - there are so many styles and materials to choose from. A circular rug works well in smaller rooms as it gives the space a focal point, like this jute rug which complements many wall colours and can help to create a sense of calm in bedrooms and home workspaces.

Rugs in general can create the illusion of space, especially when opting for a larger size that covers a lot of the floor area. They can pull the whole look of a room together, adding in accents of the colours featured through smaller accessories. Offering style and comfort, be bold with pattern and colour for the biggest impact.

You Might Also Like