Now that the hustle and bustle of the holidays is over, it’s time to start looking forward to what the next year will bring.  While you’re storing away holiday trimmings and finding homes for all the new “stuff” that made its way into your life in the last 2 weeks the year, take a moment to take stock of your surroundings.

Most of us set personal and professional goals; why not start off the new year right by setting goals for your home?  It’s well documented that your surroundings can have the most significant impact on your total well being, 2nd only to your own attitude toward life.  

And since we spend most of our time in our homes and offices, shouldn’t it feel GREAT to be there?  Everyone deserves that.  Whether you are in need of something entirely new or just want to make a few tweaks here and there, it’s always best to start with a clean slate.

Clear your space, clear your mind, and think happy thoughts of new decor for the new year.

If you haven’t done so already, this is the 2nd best time to go through your things and decide what you need to keep, donate, or trash.  I say this is the 2nd best time because there’s no time like NOW; it’s my opinion that the very best time to clear out is the end of the year when our well cared for items can do double duty:

1. get that last tax deduction in for the year, and more importantly
2. provide those less fortunate than ourselves with lovely options for gifts and necessities.

I will not go into detail on the process of clearing out; there’s plenty of resources for that. But in case you don’t feel like looking it up right now, you basically go through your things and let go of anything that:

1. hasn’t been used or worn in 6 months that is still in like new (i.e. excellent) condition should be donated (or put on consignment).  For those special sentimental items that really should stay home (or at least in the family) and things that you just LOVE Love love, I’ve got a few ideas – but we’ll get to that later.
2. has seen better days or been loved to death and just cannot be otherwise salvaged should be recycled.  Some of you savvy DIYers can turn those ratty, dingy, bleach spotted old jeans into crazy good projects (like rugs, pillows, pot holders,and planters), but for the rest of the free world, it’s time to just let go.  Please DO NOT donate these items.
3. you use regularly or for specific occasions at least a few times a year you should obviously keep.  Unless of course you have 6 turkey platters and you are NOT a caterer.  (Note to self: give away a turkey platter or 2.)

Now that you’ve cleared some things out, take this opportunity to clean as well.  Of course it’s not spring yet, but since you’re on a roll why not do it now?  Then while the rest of the world spends the first beautiful spring days (weeks for most) cleaning, YOU can spend them grilling and chilling, eating and drinking, and enjoying your updated decor!

Yes finally we get to the point of it all, the fun and exciting part!

New Decor for the New Year!

So what’s the first step?  Well by taking “inventory” and clearing things out, you’ve already taken the first step!

Next up, there are 3 main things to think about when it comes your decor:  your wants, your needs, and your budget.  When all 3 converge, life is beautiful.  When they don’t, life can still be beautiful!  

Assess your budget first because it will determine almost everything else, from what you consider a need vs. a want, to whether you try to DIY it (or start hanging out more with your crafty friends) or hire a pro (to save you money in the long run).

Once you’ve realistically thought about how much you have AND how much you want to spend (totally 2 different things), then you can be honest about what you need.  Chances are this list will be pretty short because honestly if you already live in a place that you are considering redecorating, you already have all the basics covered.  

Unless you’re doing a full on renovation or have had a major catastrophe, I’m guessing you don’t need  plumbing (that running water thing is pretty important) or new appliances.  Those would go on the want list.

I won’t lie to you, that part of the process is hard.  My trick is to get the lists done then go back and ask yourself “if I have $$$ and I have to choose between a six burner Wolf gas range with grill and char broiler OR countertops”.  What’s it gonna be?  That’s an extreme example but I think you get the point.

Once you determine the big 3 – budget, needs, and wants – you can move on to what type of updates you’d like to make.  I’m going to make it simple and break them into 3 categories.

Simple and inexpensive.  Budget = $. Think accents, hardware, and small accessories.

1. paint – it’s still the most efficient (inexpensive & effective) decor tool there is.
2. knobs and pulls
3. finials – for lamps and rods
4. pillow covers
5. throws

Middle of the line.  Budget = $$.  Think textiles and large accessories.

1. lamps
2. curtains, panels, and custom window treatments
3. pillows and bedding
4. rugs
5. art

Overhaul.  Budget = $$$.

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring and possibly everything in between.  When you are ready for a totally new look, your space hasn’t been touched in ages, or you’re still hanging on to furniture that you found on the side of the road in college, it may be time for a makeover.

Sometimes it can be a bit daunting to get started, other times you dive in head first only to get stuck halfway in. Contact me to help you save time & money with a plan that will get you through the entire process.  

Whether you need a project completed from beginning to end or just a few ideas I can help you with everything from 3D renderings like this one to full project management.

Ring in the new year with the kind of “BANG” that will last for more than just a night!  Let me help you kick it off right with new decor for the new year!