Do you have a room with "issues?" These issues can include an awkward arrangement, too much cutter/lack of organization, outdated style, and just not feeling restful or comfortable. Often it's something you just can't put your finger on, but you just know it's not right.
You might be tempted to get rid of everything and start from scratch. A dramatic but pricey and impersonal option. Better yet, take a fresh look at what you already own and (with some objective guidance) and redesign your room to work better for your specific needs. It's a new trend, and it's called "Interior Redesign."
But why is change so difficult? There are many reasons why frustrated dwellers may hesitate:
- Don't know where to start
- Don't want to spend a lot of money
- Don't have the time
- Don't trust your style instincts
- Assume your room is as good as it can be, and you'll just live with it
- Your family is resistant to change
So you've made your excuses...now snap out of it! As with most projects, getting started is the hardest part. Decide to take action, and develop a solid Redesign Plan! By breaking your project down into manageable steps, you can indeed do this!
Your plan should include the following:
- The room's purpose - who does what in that room, when do they do it and why?
- The key design elements you want to keep in the room - perhaps a favorite piece of art, a comfortable club chair, a colorful rug, your bowling trophy, whatever has the most meaning to you.
- A definition of your style - not sure? Peruse home magazines and just clip out what you like. You'll see a trend over time.
- A basic color palate - look for inspiration from a piece of art or a piece of fabric that you love.
- Furniture arrangement options - make sure there is a logical conversational grouping as well as efficient traffic flow. Resist the urge to line furniture up against a wall, and don't be afraid to try angles.
- Realistic budget if shopping is required - but first shop the other rooms of your home for hidden treasures.
Developing your redesign plan can be tricky to do yourself, however, because you are so close to your belongings. In fact, problem areas may be invisible to you. Sometimes you need a fresh perspective to think of new ideas.
You could ask a trusted friend or family to give you honest advice. Another option is to hire a professional Interior Redesigner to give you an objective viewpoint and help you put together your redesign plan. Need help implementing the plan? Redesigners are famous for their enthusiasm to roll up their sleeves and work side-by-side with you. Afterall, they love a good before and after photo opportunity!
Interior Redesigners are not expensive. Their expertise typically costs anywhere from $75 - $125 per hour, and most offer half or full-day packages and shopping services.
You can't finish what you don't start. So make a new years resolution for 2008 to tackle that problem room - you'll be glad you did!
Susan Smith is owner of Rooms That Work, and helps home dwellers redesign their living spaces in the Farmington Valley area of Connecticut. Visit www.roomsthatwork.com for more information. It's your home, only better.
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