Kim Kubsch
Redesigning your home using only what you already have is a fantastic way to refresh your space without spending money! Rethink how things can be used differently by repurposing and rearranging.
1. Declutter First
• Clear the Space: Remove unnecessary items to make it easier to visualize how to use things you already own.
• Assess What You Have: Identify key furniture pieces, décor, artwork, or accessories that you like and want to keep. Group them by category or by type of décor.
2. Identify Key Areas to Update
• Focal Points: Identify areas in each room that could use a refresh, like a wall that feels bare, an underutilized corner, or furniture that feels out of place.
• Room Functionality: Feeling cramped, awkward, or empty? Rearrange how you use the room and make it more functional.
3. Rearranging Furniture
• Create Flow: Rearrange furniture for better flow and functionality.
• Try New Layouts: Change things up. Move couches, chairs, and tables to see how different arrangements make the space feel.
4. Repurpose What You Have
• Repurpose Old Furniture: Could an old table become a new desk or nightstand? Or turn a large mirror into an art piece.
• Use Small Décor in New Ways: Take décor from one room and use it in another. A vase as a centerpiece in the dining room could also double as a décor piece in the living room.
• Art and Wall Décor: Give old pieces a fresh look by moving them to new locations or mixing and matching them for a more eclectic feel.
5. Rearrange or Restyle Your Shelves
• Sort through items on bookshelves or side tables to reduce or consolidate items. Keep only what feels meaningful or decorative.
• Display Items that are hidden in a drawer. Stack books in an artful way, group objects by color or material, or turn knick-knacks into focal points.
6. Make Over with Textiles
• Use Existing Fabrics: Rearrange throw pillows, blankets, and rugs or mix colors, patterns, and textures to refresh a space.
7. Lighting
• Maximize Natural Light: Rearranging furniture to open up windows or changing the position of plants could let more natural light in.
• Update Light Fixtures: Swap out a lampshade or reposition lighting.
• Accent Lighting: Add fairy lights, candles, or lamps with self-timers in darker corners to create cozy atmospheres.
8. Patio or Balcony
• Move indoor cushions, pillows, and throws outside to make a patio feel like an extension of your living area.
9. Measure, Plan, Experiment
• To move heavy pieces, measure them first to visualize where they might go. Use sliders under furniture legs to slide pieces to new locations. Move things around, and if it doesn’t feel right, try again.
If you are unsure about how to use items or areas of the home you want to focus on, I am here to help you brainstorm and re-design based on what you already have. No need to buy more!
Stay tuned for monthly articles about decluttering, downsizing, organizing, making transitions, and clearing of estates. Call me at 480-720-8566 to learn about my free 30-minute consultation or to speak to your group or event.
You can purchase my books Getting Your Life Together Organizer and Joy of Downsizing on Amazon or at www.JoyfulDOWNSIZING.com.