Creating "grown up" decor:
The key to a more sophisticated, "grown-up" look in your home is choosing the right finishes.
- When choosing paint, a glossy finish will show every imperfection on your wall. If you haven't patched a hole properly, or if you have any architectural defects, stick with a flat, or matte finish to add warm glow. Stay away from pastels and choose a warmer, more neutral color for your walls.
- To update your artwork, invest in nice frames with mats. Posters hung in cheap frames can make your space look like a dorm room.
- Mix textures for more interest. For example, if you have a glass vase and shiny silver candlesticks on your mantle, add a wicker basket or live plant to soften the look.
- Never rely on overhead lighting to light your space. Use table lamps, floor lamps, up lights, picture lights and accent lighting to add drama.
- Keep your large investment pieces (i.e. sofa, club chairs, headboards, etc) neutral. Trends in decor change every year, and you don't want to be stuck with a burgundy and hunter green paisley sofa that you can't afford to replace. Instead, use accents like throw rugs and pillows to change the look of your room.
