Home Décor

Never has the home been more important than it is today. While economists say the recession is over, many households are still enduring financial hardships. Due to less expendable income and tighter spending habits, Americans are now spending more time at home, and apparently are enjoying it.

Spending more time at home can require a change in ambiance and décor, as homeowners reevaluate what they can do to create a positive environment during challenging times. With a little thought a home can become a sanctuary.

Decorators and home interior experts are seeing consumers who are looking for a minor “face lift,” which could mean changing a wall color, rearranging furniture, or acquiring an object of interest to create a focal point in a room.

Homeowners focused on accessories in 2010 as a great way to update a room or house without making major changes and breaking the bank. As with adding a great belt or shoes to an outfit, so is adding an accessory, or new focal point to a room. It might be a vase you have had for years and didn’t know where to use it, a floral arrangement, old and rare books, etc. Most homes are full of objects that can be used to revamp a room when homeowners get creative.

2011 trends indicate that the focus will stay on entertaining at home. Rooms such as kitchens, media rooms and outside areas will continue to get attention. Experts advise consumers to have a “wow” factor or focal point, make sure the space is functional, and above all, make the space comfortable.

Color is important in setting the tone in a house and achieving the harmony that people want and need in the home. Color is a bargain and it is one of the least expensive changes that can be made to a house’s appearance and set a new “stage.”

If a homeowner can’t afford new kitchen cabinets, a coat of paint and adding new hardware in brushed nickel or bronze can add a “brand new” appearance. Spray-painting light fixtures and accessories can jazz up a room and cost pennies.

A structured person who prefers monochromatic themes might be drawn to walls that are white, cream, beige, sandstone and other basic neutral colors. A quiet, reflective person might prefer light blues, grays and soothing green tones. Whatever the color, it should reflect a personality and bring a sense of calmness.

Consignment furniture allows homeowners to repurpose, re-use and recycle beautiful pre-owned items that are not working in a current home.

Consignment home décor runs the gamut from furniture, art, mirrors, lamps, antiques, china, tabletop accessories, floral arrangements and more. Consignment also works for families who are downsizing.

Outdoor entertaining is popular in the South and emphasis will stay on outside decor. Decks and outdoor patios should be viewed as extension of the home and not as substitute garage or places to store junk.

Any budget can allow for repainting current furniture or adding a few plants. If you have extra funds, a deck or patio expansion could be considered, as well as adding an outdoor fireplace. These additions add ambiance and personality to a home and make it more marketable when it is time to sell.

For a new concept in decorating, try creating a “mom cave.” Now, women are getting on board and creating their own spaces to relax, recharge and rejuvenate from the daily routines of child rearing, working, cooking, cleaning, and endless errands. The woman of the house needs a place where she can read, work on a hobby, or catch a few winks to recharge.