Now that it's officially 2025, it’s the perfect time to turn your home into a space you truly love.
It's a fresh start after all! While this might sound intimidating, there’s no need for a full-scale renovation or a total redesign. Small, simple changes can truly make a major difference. Here are eight easy decor updates to welcome positive vibes into your home for the new year.
Clear the Clutter
Designer Amber Guyton of Blessed Little Bungalow says that simply decluttering your home can make a big difference. It not only makes the space feel less stressful, but it’s also the best way to evaluate if you want to make bigger changes. “It's usually difficult for homeowners to refresh a space because they can't see past what's taking up all of it,” explains Guyton. “Remove unnecessary items so you can truly see the blank canvas in front of you and better imagine updates that can be made to enhance the space." This may equal a new area rug or wall paint, or even something as simple as new lampshades and throw pillows.
Not sure where to begin? Interior designer Becky Shea suggests starting by putting away those holiday decorations. “For me, as soon as the holiday season comes to an end, I immediately put away all the decorations and give the house a thorough tidy-up,” she says.
Bring in Plants
Bringing more nature into your home can bring about positive energy. Designer Shauna Jones of Shauna Glenn Design is a huge fan of doing this. “You'll see them all over my house, and I'm lucky, because my husband is an awesome plant parent," she says. "There really is just something about being surrounded by nature that brings a calming energy to a space.”
Not a good plant parent? It’s okay. The designer suggests the “fake it until you make it” approach. “If you are not the best plant parent, there are great fake plant options, but perhaps this is the year your green thumb finds its calling,” she says.
And if you simply aren't a plant person, bringing in flowers can have the same impact. “It's a simple yet transformative way to breathe new life into a space, creating an atmosphere of renewal and tranquility," explains Shea. "Fresh flowers not only brighten up a room visually but also infuse it with vibrant, positive energy."
Install Dimmer Switches
When it comes to creating a calm environment, being able to customize light can make a major impact, according to Teresa Mack Noval of A Design Company. “Dimmable lighting is a must for adjusting the mood throughout the day, and a sound system can amplify soothing music or calming nature sounds to transform the atmosphere," she says.
If you rent or can't install dimmer switches in your home, consider buying lamps with dimmers as an alternative.
Edit Your Bookshelves
Even if you don't have a budget to buy new things for your home, you can always edit and re-style your bookshelves. “Thoughtfully styled shelves can act as a visual centerpiece in a room, showcasing your home's aesthetic and your own personal style," says Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors. "But without being carefully curated, they can also feel messy and overwhelming to look at."
She recommends starting with a clean slate by removing all of your existing items, then editing out books and objects that no longer bring you joy.
Update Your Picture Frames
We all take so many photos and post them online, but we should really be incorporating them into our real lives instead. So, consider reliving those moments by printing those photos and updating your picture frames. “Freshen up picture frames with up-to-date photos, and then rearrange for a new fresh perspective and a visual clean slate,” says Macuga.
Swap Out Your Hardware
Changing out hardware is an easy, affordable DIY that can instantly update everything from a kitchen to a bathroom or even a piece of furniture like an old desk or dresser. “A pop of color or an interesting shape can instantly bring new energy and personality to a space, whether it's on cabinet hardware or drawer handles," says Kyle Kurtenbac, owner of ROUS Hardware. “Best of all, it's a DIY-friendly update that doesn't require a lot of tools or time—just a few simple swaps can make a significant impact.”
Buy a New Doormat
It's the first thing you see when you enter your home, and if your doormat is looking less than welcoming, it's a quick and easy replacement. So, feel free to treat yourself and make your home a happier place.
Treat Yourself to New Curtains
New year, new curtains. We are so here for it. Curtains are a fantastic way to add color and texture to any space. So, feel free to experiment and change yours up. Another thing to consider is how sheer or opaque you want your curtains to let more or less light in.
Read more at Real Simple
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