You’re Growing Up. Your Home Décor Should, Too.
IG: @heidicaillierdesign
If you still have a bright turquoise blue cross you bought from Hobby Lobby in 2005, or a Live Love Laugh sign hanging on your living room wall, or maybe even towels from your college dorm room—then stick around because I wrote this article for you.
Now, I promise, I’m not trying to call you out. I’ve done a painful dive into old Pinterest boards, and there is décor sprinkled around my house that needs to go. But my guess is that you can put yourself in this category, too. Perhaps, there’s even décor that has carried on even from your early 20s—no judgment, I’m raising my hand.
I hate to break it to you, my friend, but we’re growing up. My 36th birthday is this week, and while I know that’s young by most standards, I’m beginning to feel my age. But maybe you’re not on the backside slide to 40, like me. Perhaps you’re in a season of life where you’re an empty-nester, but you’re still hanging on to all of the furniture and décor you bought “until the kids are older.” Guess what? They are grown now, and it’s time to fill your home with all the things you dreamed of, free of spilled juice and melted chocolate.
And since we’re in this season of growing up, our home décor should, too. So here’s a list of dos and don’ts for moving your home into a new chapter.
DO: Add throw blankets and pillows to your couches and armchairs. This added layer of texture and warmth creates a sense of coziness.
DON’T: Throw off your color scheme. While this can be a place to change your current color palette easily, keep in mind what’s already going on. When in doubt, stick to neutral colors. Remember not to overdo it—You still need a place to sit.
DO: Swap out all of those “Live, Laugh, Love” signs for classic photo frames, a gallery wall, or simple statement pieces.
DON’T: Cluster too many pieces that don’t flow. Find balance when it comes to wall décor. Remember your “rules of three” and the color palette you’ve already established in the space.
DO: Decorate with pieces that bring you joy, have sentimental meaning or have a story behind them. Take a look back at this blog post when it comes to decorating with purpose.
DON’T: Don’t wait on your forever home (see above), and don’t decorate with pieces you’ve found just for the sake of filling your space.
DO: Remember, every place someone can sit in your living room, there needs to be a place for their drink. Side tables, coffee tables, ottomans, end tables, etc., are all important in making a space feel complete.
DON’T: Forget about lighting. The old dusty ceiling fan isn’t cutting it. If you can’t make major changes to your home’s lighting (i.e. adding recessed lighting, changing out light fixtures), add lamps to your home to create a more inviting and cozy atmosphere.
DO: Add baskets for storage in open spaces. This is a great way to hide clutter (and toys) while keeping everything organized.
DON’T: Go out and buy chevron baskets and a 4-cube shelf. This is so 2015. Look for storage with texture, natural fibers, and neutral colors.
DO: Create a simple centerpiece for your dining table. Serving trays with flowers, candles, or a simple pine garland can be a great way to add a sophisticated touch to your table.
DON’T: Ditch the obnoxious table runners unless we are in the prime holiday season and like to get decorative. I have a simple white linen runner that works all year round.
DO: Upgrade your bathroom with all matching towels. If you still have mismatching bright towels from your college days—toss them. Just toss them! Opt for neutral towels instead.
DON’T: Skip out on bathroom décor. Most bathrooms lack natural lighting, causing makeup horror stories. So, brighten up the space with light paint colors, décor, and curtains, etc.