Hamilton Herald Masthead

Editorial


Front Page - Friday, July 14, 2023

Five ways to redesign your home on a budget




Spring is synonymous with home cleaning, but what about summertime? Homeowners can use the long days, which are usually bright and full of sunlight, to improve their living space.

There are countless ways to approach a home refresh, although not all are created equal when it comes to cost. “Less is more” minimalism is a design trend that can help homes look modern with less intervention. Minimalism is a low-cost approach to revitalizing your space and can be incorporated into any home design style.

Consider these five simple ways to capture the essence of minimalist design.

Add plants and greenery

Biophilic design is continuing to grow in popularity. If you don’t have any plants inside your home, consider adding a couple to give your space a more natural feel.

Easy-to-grow plants such as ferns will thrive in rooms with natural light. Snake plants and succulents are drought tolerant, so if you only water them occasionally, they’ll still look lush in your home.

Experts recommend grouping plants with varied sizes and textures for a dramatic greenery effect.

Bring in light

Sunlight is a no-cost, natural way to enhance interior space. However, if your space doesn’t have substantial exposure to sunlight, try adding artificial light elements.

Lighting up an area makes it more cheerful and removes a gloomy feel. Combining artificial and natural light can make any space look bigger and more welcoming.

Making windows the focal point, using lighter colors and adding mirrors can all help increase light as well.

Create an organized space

Minimalistic designs often encompass well-organized spaces. To create a stress-free space, ensure it’s clean and well-organized.

Experts often recommend focusing on one cluttered room or tiny area at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. To help manage what stays and what you should move to a different place, sort items by type and then put them away.

Tell a story

Minimalism tends to be simple but doesn’t have to be cold or boring. Adding a handful of personal touches into any space can make it burst with life while reflecting the real personality of the user.

Additionally, adopting the “one in, one out” method can help achieve a more minimalist approach to décor while still allowing for individuality. As the name suggests, for every item you add to your home, remove, or donate an item to avoid clutter.

Hang art or statement pieces

The bold colors or textures of a statement piece can draw attention to any living area. Fortunately, you don’t have to be an art aficionado to elevate your space.

Simply choosing something personal that speaks to you and your style can add the final addition to your home design. If you’re searching for an art alternative, consider adding a decorative mirror. This functional piece can add the illusion of a bigger space.

For more information about home design trends, or to find a local professional to help you redesign your space, visit the membership directory on the Home Builder’s Association of Greater Chattanooga’s website (members.hbagc.net).