9 Best Ideas For Decorating And Updating A Tired Room

Revitalize your tired room with these 9 top decorating ideas. Transform your space and create a fresh, welcoming atmosphere with these creative tips and inspiration.

One of the most asked questions here at StoneGable is about how to update a room. I hear you! I think we all want to keep our homes comfortable, attractive, and updated. I’ve been on a soft rant lately about the importance of keeping our homes as up-to-date as we are!

Is a room in your home feeling a bit tired and lacking inspiration? I know exactly how you feel. The cozy room we once loved being in for its comfort and lovely aesthetics now does not give us the same feeling. It’s lost its charm and now seems a bit drab and outdated. Instead of enjoying our surroundings, we find ourselves feeling a bit deflated or even irritated by them. How did things take a turn for the worse?

I’m so glad you are here because there’s hope for our tired room! With a little creativity and some simple updates, we can breathe new life into our space and recapture that sense of comfort and style we once cherished.

a plant on a coffee table with a sofa and pillows in the backhground

In this post, we’ll explore 9 easy ideas for decorating and updating a tired room, each designed to bring back the appeal and make our space feel inviting and attractive once again. These ideas are sure to inspire and help us transform our room into a place we love to be in once more. So let’s work on that tired room, breathing new life into it.

Change can often be daunting, especially when it comes to refreshing a room.

Most of us prefer to take things one step at a time rather than tackling everything all at once. Let’s acknowledge that decorating is often a slow process. And that is okay. It is more than okay.

This transformation often moves at a leisurely pace. So, be patient with your room and yourself, and celebrate each small improvement along the way!

So, what’s the plan when your room is begging for an update, whether big or small?

Two Things To Know Before You Begin Decorating

Before starting to update any room, there are two important things to consider. These factors significantly contribute to the success of your room makeover.

A SPINDLE CHAIR WITH A DRINK TABLE NEX TO IT.

First, understanding your decorating style is crucial. Think of it as your decorating blueprint. When you are clear about your design style, you will make smarter choices. It streamlines the updating process by helping you decide what fits and what doesn’t in your room.

Equally important is defining your color palette. Will you keep the same color palette, or are you ready for a new one? This distinction is key. Your chosen color palette serves as the unifying thread, making sure all the items in the room work together and look cohesive.

If you are thinking of moving to a new neutral color palette, these posts are loaded with helpful information and inspiration…

8 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT COLOR will guide you through choosing the best color story for your home.

Two important posts to read to help you decide on the style and color palette of the room are:

Update A Room With A Fresh Coat Of Paint

When we first moved into the Tanglewood house, all the walls were painted dull tan, which gave the rooms a closed-off and unwelcoming feel. We knew the color had to be changed, so we opted for white.

decorating roomi ideas- white painted dining room

Our choice of Benjamin Moore’s Simply White transformed our home, infusing it with a fresh, light, and airy feel. Tanglewood’s open-concept layout practically called for a single color scheme, and the soft white color beautifully complemented the spaciousness of our home.

I’ve developed a deep appreciation for white walls, especially in our open-plan environment. They bring a sense of calmness and seem to enlarge our living areas, perfectly suiting our home.

I think paint is the closest thing to magic! It has the power to totally change a space’s aesthetics. No matter your color choice, painting a room you want to decorate or update is where to start.

You might like to read 6 TIPS TO HELP YOU CHOOSE THE PERFECT PAINT COLOR. Its very practical tips will help you choose the right paint for your room.

white painted walls in a dining room and kitchen

Transforming A Room By Restoring And Upcycling: Unlock The Potential Of What You Already Have

When we consider it, our homes hold a treasure trove of decor! There are so many furnishings and accents living with us that are begging to be restored and upcycled! That means getting creative, and with the power of a little elbow grease, we can craft decor that we would love to display in our homes!

The Magic Of Paint: Giving New Life To What You Have

UPDATING DECORATING A ROOM IDEAS- white buffet with updated clock

The clock in the great room serves as a prime example of the transformative updating of something you already have! Once situated above the white buffet, it has found a new home on a wall in my office. Despite being moved, it remains a cherished favorite of mine.

I am a huge fan of the magic of paint for updating things we already have. It’s amazing what a coat of paint can do! Whether it’s refreshing a tired mirror, reviving a chipped chair, or adding personality to a clear vase, paint holds the key to making what we already have in our homes pretty and useful again. With just a little paint and a trusty brush, it’s like waving a magic wand infused with pixie dust!

Paint has the remarkable ability to transform a dresser into a vibrant statement piece in a bedroom or to seamlessly blend a flea market find with our color story.

Whether it’s sprucing up a yellowed lampshade to a perfect white again or giving a chair and ottoman a faux leather finish with a touch of paint and wax, previously neglected or worn items can now contribute to a room’s overall aesthetic. What once caused frustration now adds to the room’s beauty and cohesiveness.

When it comes to updating and decorating a room, paint should be the first tool you grab from your toolbox.

Updating What You Have With Fabric

Another way to update a room, similar to painting for its transformative power, is to use fabric to breathe new life into existing pieces. This can be a game-changer. Instead of splurging on entirely new furnishings, consider reupholstering chairs, sofas, or ottomans with fresh fabrics that work with your color palette and your updated look.

DECORATING A ROOM IDEAS: STRAW HAT ON A SEAT CUSHION

Many of us appreciate the design and functionality of our existing furniture pieces. When our upholstered items fit perfectly into our rooms, it’s understandable that we hesitate to get something new. I completely understand. That’s why picking out a fresh fabric for these perfect pieces is such a smart move.

Slipcovers play a big role in updating existing furnishings for several reasons.

First, slipcovers offer a cost-effective solution to totally change the look of tired furniture without the need for a complete overhaul. By simply covering up outdated upholstery, slipcovers can instantly refresh the look of chairs, sofas, or ottomans.

Slipcovers offer practical benefits like easy maintenance and cleaning, making them ideal for households with children or pets. Slipcovers provide a simple, easy way to update and upscale the appearance of your existing furnishings, breathing new life into your room’s aesthetic.

DECORATING A ROOM IDEAS- SLIPCOVER ON A SOFA

I’ve discovered that upholstering, slipcovering, or even making new cushions for decor pieces like benches can be a budget-friendly solution to updating and decorating my home’s furnishings.

Reupholstering and slipcovering are practical ways to infuse your personal touch into your decor, all while keeping costs down.

However, if DIYing your furniture isn’t your thing, seeking out professionals who specialize in reupholstering and slipcovering is a smart alternative. Building a strong relationship with these experts is essential, as they can offer valuable advice, quality workmanship, and assistance in bringing your vision to life.

Whether you choose to tackle the project yourself or enlist the help of skilled professionals, the end result will be a refreshed space that reflects your style and personality.

Creating Interest With What You Already Have: Decorating with a High/Low Look

DECORATING A ROOM IDEAS- A decorated white buffet decorated with pretty accessories

One of the decorating techniques I love is what I affectionately call the “high/low” approach. It’s all about seamlessly blending higher-end furnishings or designs that exude luxury with more affordable items.

This method not only results in a visually pleasing aesthetic but also offers a wallet-friendly way to decorate.

Picture the concept of juxtaposition at play—pairing two elements together to create a striking contrast. As decorators, we aim for this contrast to be not only pleasing but also captivating to the eye. Achieving the perfect high/low balance involves combining beautiful, high-quality pieces with thrifted finds, sale treasures, or beloved items collected over the years.

When curated thoughtfully, these contrasting elements work together to create a beautifully thoughtful look, resulting in what I like to call decorating gold. That is the look I love and strive to achieve in my home.

The image above shows the high/low aesthetic that resonates with me. While the mirror may have been a bit of a splurge, the items decorating the white buffet were quite reasonably priced. As for the piece of art, it was an absolute steal!

Honing your eye for spotting beautiful pieces and finding similar decor at bargain prices is a skill worth cultivating. It’s one of my personal decorating superpowers, and with a bit of practice, it can become yours, too.

Keeping an open mind and embracing the thrill of the hunt can lead to discovering hidden gems that elevate your space without breaking the bank. So, whether you’re browsing thrift stores, scouring clearance racks, or perusing online marketplaces, cultivating your knack for finding beauty in unexpected places can be a fun and thrilling experience and make your home truly special.

Let Go Of Outdated Decor

Let’s talk about the reality of updating a room—it’s a process, not an overnight transformation. It’s important to understand that if there’s something in your room that’s making the entire space look dated or tired, it might be time to bid it farewell. While covering, painting, or upcycling can work wonders in some cases, there are instances where letting go is the best option.

Deciding to part with a piece of furniture or decor item can take time, and that’s perfectly okay. Take the time to weigh your options and consider the impact of removing an outdated item from a room.

However, it’s crucial not to get stuck in indecision. Many home decorators find themselves paralyzed by the fear of making the wrong decision. But being stuck is counterproductive—it hinders progress and prevents you from achieving the room of your dreams.

Many home decorators find themselves paralyzed by the fear of making the wrong decision. But being stuck is counterproductive—it hinders progress and prevents you from achieving the room of your dreams.

Sometimes, you need to take a leap of faith and move forward. If you find yourself struggling with the decision-making process or feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of updating your decor, there are resources available to help.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU FEEL STUCK WITH YOUR DECOR is an insightful post designed to offer guidance and support for navigating through decorating challenges.

Remember, embracing change and letting go of what no longer serves you is essential for creating a space you truly love.

Refresh Your Room By Downsizing Tchockies

Let’s talk about the common tendency to collect things. Whether it’s figurines, cars, flamingos, or any other cherished items, collections often hold sentimental value for many of us. While I may not be an avid collector myself, I’ve witnessed firsthand how these collections can bring joy and meaning to the lives of loved ones.

Coffee table with updated accessories

Now, here’s where a bit of gentle, tough love comes into play. While collections hold sentimental value, there comes a point where they can transition from cherished treasures to clutter. It’s a harsh reality but one worth acknowledging.

What’s more, many collections have the potential to make our homes appear outdated. This is sad but true!

Why not try this approach to displaying collectibles when we want to update a room? Instead of displaying the entire collection all at once, why not consider grouping together a selection of 3 or 5 collectibles and rotating them in and out of a room? This simple adjustment can work wonders in instantly updating the look and feel of a space.

So, my friend, I encourage you to be brave and give it a try. Embrace the idea of curating your collections and displaying them in a way that breathes new life into your home. By taking this step, you’ll not only declutter your space but also give it a less cluttered look.

The Common Urge To Overdecorate And How To Conquer It

When it comes to updating a room, it’s important to strike the right balance between adding things that bring value and interest to our room and the urge to avoid over-decoration. Here are some tips to help you achieve a refreshed look without overwhelming your space.

Start With A Clean Slate

Before adding things to a room, take a step back and evaluate its current state. Clear out any clutter or unnecessary items to create a blank canvas for your update.

Embrace Minimalism

Less is often more when it comes to decorating. Instead of filling every available space with collectible decor, focus on a few key pieces from the things you collect that make a statement. This allows each item to shine and prevents the room from feeling overcrowded.

Consider Scale and Proportion

When selecting a few furnishings, pay attention to their size in relation to the space. Oversized furniture or accessories can overpower a room, while too many small items can create visual clutter. Aim for a balanced mix of sizes to create visual interest without overwhelming the space.

WHY IS BALANCE IMPORTANT WHEN YOU DECORATE? This will help you understand the concept of balance in interior design and how to use it in your home.

Edit, Edit, Edit

Don’t be afraid to edit your decor choices. If something feels out of place or unnecessary, remove it. Editing is key to achieving a well-curated and cohesive look in your space.

By following these tips, you can update your room in a way that feels fresh and inviting without over-decorating. Remember, simplicity and restraint are key to achieving a well-balanced space.

THE OVER DECORATING DILEMMA AND HOW TO CONQUER IT is a very informative post about the more than common tendency home decorators have to overdecorate and savvy ways to break this habit and add peace and beauty to a home.

Update A Room By Shopping Your House

When seeking to update a room, a cost-effective method is to look no further than your own home. By perusing your current furniture and decor, you should be able to freshen up the space without buying many new things. Consider the potential of each piece, whether it’s a beloved armchair or a neglected side table, and imagine how it could be repurposed to breathe new life into the room. Even the smallest adjustments, such as rearranging rugs or repositioning artwork, can transform your space.

This is my favorite way to update the rooms in our home. I’m always very surprised by how many items I can use from different rooms or the basement to revitalize a room that needs a little brightening up.

A bench from the landing on our stairs becomes a coffee table for a fun and different look in our living room.

This process of shopping your home allows you to tap into the resources you already have, unleashing the power of creativity and resourcefulness in updating the room’s look and feel.

6 BRILLIANT WAYS TO SHOP YOUR HOUSE is full of ideas for shopping your home.

Using Accents And Accessories To Breathe Life Into A Tired Room

decorating a room ideas- using accessories to decorate a room

Updating accent decor and accessories is a foolproof way to elevate the style quotient of any room. These small but important design elements, ranging from throw pillows to candles to faux plants and flowers, have the power to add personality and flair to your space. While I tend to keep my larger furniture pieces timeless and classic, I embrace trendier options when it comes to accessories.

One of the great things about accent decor is its versatility. Swapping out accessories every few years is easy and budget-friendly, keeping your space feeling fresh and up-to-date.

However, when updating your accent decor, it’s smart to keep a few savvy tips in mind.

  1. Prioritize items that resonate with you personally and reflect your unique style. Choose pieces that bring you joy and speak to your aesthetic preferences.
  2. Consider shopping for accent decor on a budget. Many affordable options can be found at thrift stores, discount retailers, or even through DIY projects. By getting creative and thinking outside the box, you can find unique and stylish pieces without breaking the bank.
  3. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of moving your accent decor around regularly. Switching up the placement of accessories can breathe new life into a room and keep things from feeling boring.

Updating accent decor and accessories is an opportunity to fill your space with personality and charm.

ACCENT DECOR EVERY HOME NEEDS is a guidebook that will help you find the right accessories for each room in your home.

decorating a room ideas- pottery and a plant on a chest in the living room

Are you ready to transform a room in your home? Pick just one space, and start today! With the tips and strategies shared in this post, you have everything you need to start decorating and updating a room to give it a fresh look.

FAQs About Updating And Decorating A Tired Room

The suggestions in this post will help guide you in updating your living room. Consider giving your walls a new coat of paint, updating items in your room, like a sofa with new upholstery, painting a tired-looking coffee table in a color that works with the room’s color story, getting rid of clutter, and adding a few new accessories.

Spend time in your boring room and try to figure out what makes it boring. Is it the color palette that seems ho-hum? Then try a fresh coat of paint. Is it outdated or tired-looking furniture? Reupholster or refinish it. Would some new and trendy accents and accessories help? Remember to shop your house. Move things from one room to another. Accessories and accents are inexpensive and can be changed out every few years.

Several savvy ways exist to make a room look better without spending anything. Here’s a list.

Clean and tidy up the room, shop your house, fix, reupholster, paint what you have, rearrange your furniture, and some adding fresh flowers always makes everything look for cheery.

Shopping + Sources

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147 Comments

  1. I love to study some of the high end sources like Serena & Lily, Pottery Barn, etc., and then figure out a way to create a similar look.

    1. I do this too…Container Store, Pottery Barn, C&B, Department Stores – then I try to recreate using things from Walmart, Target, Hobby Lobby, Kirkland’s, At Home and Home Goods. I had a buyer friend who told me they source a lot of things from the same places…I came to the conclusion that it must be display techniques that make them more appealing. In fact, prices at these higher end stores just seem outrageous to me. Hobby Lobby and At Home have started displaying things in room vignettes so that you can try to imagine them in your space. A lot of times, I see those, then go in search of the item elsewhere in the store! I also use things I already have, just had no idea in how to display them in different ways!

      1. I love looking at Pottery Barn, Serena & Lily catalogs and getting ideas but, then I head to my usual places to buy my items. Sometimes if it’s on sale at those high end places I’ll buy there but really like finding a great deal. I love buying pillow covers from Hobby Lobby or Amazon for lower prices.

  2. Great info! I just love your style. Can you give details on the fern print hanging by the spindle chair? I love it!! Thanks!

    1. Hi Angie, I found these prints locally. I am going to be working with the shop owner so you will be able to buy some of the beautiful things in this store.

  3. Thank you this is great advise, as aLways!!

  4. sharon Kearney says:

    I love the knitted pillow in the ‘Cover It’ photo on your slip covered sofa. It matches so well with the rattan/wicker/basket items you use. Is this available to buy anywhere?

    1. I’ve had that pillow cover for almost a decade. It was from Pottery Barn. Sorry, I have not seen it on their site for awhile.

  5. Please share the source of the wicker tray on your coffee table. I have always admired it.

  6. All good tips.I always find it hard to edit and simplify a room, still working on that.Love the touch of green you added with the pillows.

    1. Doreen, be ruthless! You will love the results! I’m cheering for you!

  7. My husband and I are in our early 70’s and still love to have a beautiful home. We have been blessed to have some gorgeous family antiques. Our living room is small and we have decided that we would like to have four comfortable chairs. My question is do you have any idea if a place like Wayfair is a good place to purchase from?? We live in an area where there are few furniture stores and what they carry is either too rustic or too expensive. I would so appreciate any suggestions that you have. Since we seldom have big crowds over we feel like four matching chairs is a good way to go. Thank you so much for any suggestions that you have. You are a favorite blogger of mine and I love your Sunday messages!!! Have a blessed day.

    1. Hi Betsy, online buying is all about reviews and returns. Read the reviews and make sure someone will come and pick up the chairs if you don’t like them. I have gotten several big-ticket items from Wayfair with their “white glove” delivery. I had got an armoire that did not work in our home and the company sent someone to get it. Very easy! Hope this helps.

    2. Yes, Betsy, read the reviews through. I’ve read many a review that reports the upholstered headboards have an off gassing smell, or appear higher in the picture than they are, or fabric is not finished properly, parts missing, etc. I mention headboards because that is what I’ve been searching for but I imagine there can be the same issues with other upholstered pieces. Most are made in China. Also, take note of measurements. The piece you order can be too big for your space or too small.

  8. Marilynn Vannelli says:

    I cannot tell you how much I have enjoyed your blog and how many tips I have incorporated into my updating. My favorite tip is decorating with white or light accessories, curtains, etc. It really gives our home a lift!

  9. Rebecca Lopez says:

    Can you please provide a source for the rug with oatmeal background with white and blue accents?

    1. Hi Rebecca, I think you mean my living room rug? It has white and charcoal accents. This rug is 10 times as pretty in real life. It was quite a splurge but I would do it again in a heartbeat!

  10. Elizabeth says:

    Hi, Love your style! Please reveal the source for the rug in the High/Low picture and the rug under the dining table in the Update With Paint picture. Thanks so much!

    1. Elizabeth says:

      Thank you! You’re the best.
      And the source for the rug in the High/Low picture?

  11. Can you reveal the source of the natural, possibly jute rug in what appears to be the front entrance.

  12. Debbie Jones says:

    Yvonne, Can you tell me whats going on with me not being able to view your blog anymore.I get 1 quarter of a page only! There are pop up adds throughout. You close it and more come as if you didn’t close it. google is one big offender! I have now tried other computers, browsers with no luck. It does seem to work on a friends Apple laptop. Can you help me and I can’t be the only one?

    1. I’m sorry you are having trouble viewing StoneGalbe Debbie. I don’t think there are any issues on my end. I just updated my whole blog to make it easier to see posts and navigate the blog. As far as pop-ups, there are no more ads than I’ve always had.

    2. CarolBinTX says:

      Try using Chrome or other, more updated browsers. I loved IE (more user friendly to me), but most places have discontinued their support and I was experiencing weird things like this on different sites, including StoneGable.

  13. Thank you for your advice in updating a room. I appreciate all of the tips and tricks you offer.
    I have been admiring your spindle chairs for quite some time but have not found a reference as to where you got them. May I ask?

  14. Connie Cote says:

    Where did that rug ? I Love it!

    1. Connie Cote says:

      OOPS! LOL Where did you get that rug?

        1. CarolBinTX says:

          they are on sale now 50% off!

  15. I once had SIX boxes of stuff from when my daughter was in Kindergarten! For my five year younger son, I had ONE. Once they were put away, I never looked at them! I went through each of them and saved maybe 5 art/craft pieces each, put them in a small tote with other mementos (baby bracelet, locks of hair…I threw out the baby teeth and the umbilical cords!) They like looking through them and appreciate that I kept something from their childhood. I guess they’ll get them eventually. Neither one has space for them now. I’ve started one each for the grandkids too.

  16. Nan, Odessa, De says:

    What is the best natural fabric rug?
    Çan I use this type of rug year round? Or is it seasonal?
    Thanks for this great post!

    1. I think you might be asking about a jute rug. Yes, you can use them all year round, but not outside. They are a great choice for any room.

  17. Joyce Kennard says:

    Yvonne, I have enjoyed and followed you for years. Need some advice, the web page is now full of advertisement. How do I get rid of it? It is hard to follow what you are saying and showing. Thank You

    1. I know ads are so pesky! Sorry! You can disable them by clicking on the X next to most of them. Like all things running a blog is very expensive. Hope you can enjoy the content and the pictures.

  18. Georgia Mcneil says:

    I really love you suggestion and ideas. Thanks . I will bring looking for more ideas

  19. I need to go through and purge my Knick knacks and seasonal decor. Half of them I don’t even use and all they are doing is taking up space.

  20. Mary Kaiser says:

    Great tips for me, thanks for them. I need to refresh a couple of rooms in my home. I have painted furniture before, and it is always so fun to see a piece transformed with paint!

  21. Jeanne DiOrio says:

    Hi Yvonne. Your blog has helped me understand my decorating style and my home has become a showplace I love! I realized that some decor pieces just won’t work with what I am trying to achieve and they had to go. Recently we painted most of our rooms Simply White and that was a game changer. It really is the perfect color!! Thank you for all you do!

  22. Terri Herman says:

    Oh how I needed this! We moved from the foothills of NC to the coast so my style is beginning to change which is hard!

  23. Great post…I have a very close friend that has asked for my help in her family room….I am struggling with how best to help and not offend….she has a lot of things from her mothers decor (she inherited the home) it’s great stuff and was all the rage in the late 90s?…if you have any tips for how to gently suggest she lose A LOT of those treasures…..fake ivy, matching sets of furniture…..etc…I would be so grateful.

  24. Heather Brown says:

    I love your comment: Most of the time I keep my big-ticket furniture items very classic but I go a bit more on-trend with accessories.

    I’m going to use this and refresh the smaller, in trend accessories every few years as you mention. And I like the fact you say inexpensive. I think many folks feel in order to have a room look ‘good’ it has to have expensive items…but it doesn’t and I like how you tell and show us how to do this. Thank you! HB

  25. So many useful tips! Thanks for sharing.

  26. Thank you for these ideas for up dating my rooms. I am going to go through my accessories and eliminate some and save some for later. I also think I will make some changes by painting walls.

  27. I’m seeing those spindle chairs in many homes and instead of adding one that isn’t exactly as I’d like I am waiting to buy the exact one I do like…no more cluttering up with things I just don’t need or isn’t what I wish to have for the long haul. I’m working on the de-cluttering now and reading your advice today has been a huge help! Thank You Yvonne!

  28. My favorite thing to do when updating my decor is to look on Pinterest for inspiration and then start by shopping my home. I have found that I can either remake or refinish an item to make it a beautiful accent in my home. I often like to look in thrift shops or consignment stores to search for new decor without spending a fortune.

  29. Stephanie says:

    I want to thank you for teaching me so much. I walk into a store my mind is rolling through key words like, dirty colors, texture & stay in your lane. I have a small notebook that I carry in my purse. In it I have put my paint sample, along with lots of notes!!!! Yvonne again with utmost sincerity thanks for being such a wonderful teacher.

  30. Thanks for the great ideas! Decluttering “tchotchkes” can definitely help update and change a room.

  31. A friend just called me to see if I could help with her decor problem – not that I am an expert but the first thing I noticed was her paint colors! It’s so “sad” that I immediately ask if she is willing to paint new colors on her wall because that will brighten up the whole thing. So I am glad to read that your 1st list to update a room is by painting it — glad I gave her a good advise 🙂

  32. Dianne Glass says:

    Wonderful ideas! I think I knew them, but the pictures of your beautiful home confirms the difference that can be made by applying your principles. I hope I can find a seamstress who can make slipcovers as beautiful as yours.

  33. Love the thoughts you shared! Keep the beauty coming!

  34. I love the idea of slipcovers or reupholster, but I just got a quote for reupholstering 2 chairs. It was almost $5000! Wow. Any ideas on how to trim the cost?

    1. Here’s a good way to think about this- $250.00 a chair for something you love is really a bargain.

  35. Wonderful suggestions for revitalizing a room!

  36. Melanie C says:

    I totally overdecorate! So hard not to when I love so many things! I keep hearing myself say “I wish I had more display space”.

    1. If you look at the homes of designers, they often have this same problem!

  37. Laura Harrie says:

    Yvonne,
    I agree going with one color throughout the house is the way to go. We have a home with cathedral ceilings and the soft white color we used is perfect for us.

  38. Thanks for the tips Yvonne! I am always painting something…picture frames, plant stands, planters, etc. Glad to know that it is one of your tried-and-true methods!

  39. Love your blog. So glad I found you

  40. Great article, very inspiring. We’re in need of a MBR update desperately. Simply finding the right bedding has been a challenge. The FR slipcovered sofa and chair are fading in areas from the sun light and the area rug, well it’s time…. your blog has motivated me to get moving on these updates! Can’t wait to go shopping!!

  41. Love your website! I enjoyed the info on updating a tired room..at your suggestion, I now search rooms..including our barn that holds .many decorative articles..and I love how forgotten items are PERFECT in a new area!

  42. Love love alll your decorating ideas, tips.
    Recipes!!! the ones I’ve tried have been delicious!& especially enjoy your scriptures & devotions. Keep writing! Thank you

  43. Elaine Rousseau says:

    Love reading your articles very practical great advice thats easy to follow. Your ideas and pictures are inspiring
    Thanks

  44. Great tips! Once we reupholstered our couch to a nice ivory fabric, it opened up a whole new way to introducing color and updating our lvgrm. I like changing pops of color with each season with pillow covers. Thank you for your inspiration.

  45. Kari Moers says:

    Paint really is a big one!

  46. Eileen Wilcox says:

    I really love the curtains on your windows. I’ve searched and searched and cannot find anything that even looks like that I was wondering where you purchased them.

  47. So many great ideas and suggestions. And you’re right. Some of letting go can be difficult

  48. this is such a well written article. I wish I had read it 6 years ago when downsizing and building our ranch. Its still the article I share with family and friends. Thanks for sharing.

  49. I’m an estate sale shopper. You can always find a good deal that fits your liking. The shades look interesting.

  50. No matter how lovely the home, things start looking tired. Your ideas for a refresh are so welcomed!

  51. Kelly Ueber says:

    I love all of your ideas!! I’m in the process now of updating my house and decluttering perfect timing!

  52. Amanda Gregory says:

    We are updating our whole house due to an about to be walking 9 month old granddaughter. But when the knick knacks come out again, some will stay packed up. I love the simplicity of your home. It calms the mind and sole.

  53. Love the info. Always look forward to a new reveal

  54. I feel as if my great room is very, very tired. I will try to tackle one idea at a time. Great and timely suggestions!

  55. I am ready to put some great idea that you shared to the test! I love creating a space where friends and family feel loved and comfortable.

  56. Dian Heidler says:

    Thanks for all the good info! It gets my mind working on ways to improve my home!

  57. Gayla Greer says:

    I getting ready to update my tired guest room with lighter colors. We just painted the whole house and I can’t wait to get started!

  58. Melissa Kendall says:

    This is a great article. I’m reading the article on getting “unstuck” next! Thank you for bringing joy and advice.

  59. I love your website. Makes my day to see how all your patterns and white shades all come together to create this visually beautiful and serene eye candy.

  60. Jackie Collins says:

    Your blog inspires me! Sometimes I take photos of my home interior and then look at them from your perspective. I know I tend to over clutter because I am always removing stuff after I review my photos. I love live plants. Do you keep live plants in your home? Or do you have a favorite place for a plant to thrive?

  61. Sue Nordberg says:

    Yep, I’m tired of looking at my livingroom pillows. I need to find some new pillow covers and update the style just a bit. Summer indoors should look clean and calm in order to stand the outdoor heat and humidity. Thank you for the advice.

  62. I love all the ideas on how to update our homes on a budget, or using what you have and switching items into different rooms!

  63. I copied your clock make over.
    Love it. It was green in my “white” room.
    Thank you

  64. Gail Prowant says:

    I love to look at high end shops and then try to do a similar look for a lower cost.

  65. Trish Griffith says:

    Your blog is always informative and well done! I also love to move my favorite decorative items to different rooms for a new look. Thank you for your inspiration…

  66. I will paint furniture to update a room. We just painted a mirror and two dressers. I like to have faux greenery around the house.

  67. Lois Zahradnik says:

    Love your tips on updating and repurposing things you already have on hand. I am going to
    use some these ideas and get started updating a bedroom…

  68. Always look forward to your daily post. So many interesting ideas and helpful hints.

  69. Georgena Gibson says:

    Love, love, love your style! If I could ditch everything I have and start over, I would decorate similar to you. I look forward to your posts and your knowledge inspires the way I decorate. Thanks for all the info!

  70. Valerie Cooper says:

    YOu never stop surprising and wowing! always thoughtful …..

  71. I love these posts. I need to update some areas with paint. We downsized a lot and got rid of tchotkes and I like a more minimalist look now. I also love using naturals elements.

  72. Nedra DuTart says:

    I read your blog every morning while drinking my coffee. Your suggestions are amazing. Thank you.

  73. Your suggestions were right on! I have a dear friend and she wanted a new look for her great room but only had a tiny bit of money to work with. For under $100 she achieved her goal by adding fun new pillows!

  74. I just love your style but I admit I need just a little more color in my life! I’ve been slowly updating with neutral upholstered pieces but would really like a more colorful rug. Any suggestions?

  75. Good Morning I just have to say I love your Sunday read ……what a beautiful way to start my Sundays ……as you see I am up early…

    Thank You

  76. Terri Herman says:

    Working on this! Thanks for the guidance and good ideas.

  77. Great ideas and can use right now! Thank you!

  78. Donna Zoltanski says:

    Exactly an issue we have now. Bingo, going to Google slipcover upholstery, or do we need another side chair? Thanks for all your fantasic ideas. We enjoy our visits to the Lancaster area. Just back from visitng with family in Myerstown! Beautiful countryside.

  79. Wow! So many helpful, doable tips and advice in “how to update a room”! I got so many ideas that I can implement even on my budget! Thank you for the inspiration and insight!

  80. Thanks for the update article! I do feel “stuck” with some items that need to go, but my husband is very stuck!! He has a hard time giving or throwing away if it is not broken. He is very sentimental!! … any suggestions!? ?

    1. I hear this all the time! We have to gently nudge our husbands into this decade!

  81. Cynthia Sirois says:

    These are all great ideas. I recently updated a few of my rooms with new area rugs, and it really makes a difference. I also like to “shop my home “and rearrange decorative items,which always makes the room look fresh and new!

  82. Nancy Robinson says:

    I was ready for this post today. Thank you for the great advise.

  83. Love your ideas always! I need those zebra pillows! Where did you get them?

    1. I found them at One Kings Lane on sale. I don’t see them anymore but they have them in different colors.

  84. Great information and ideas! Thanks for sharing. I love to look for my decoration finds at estate sales, thrift stores and garage sales! I get so excited when I find that item that speaks to me. Of course I also look and Pottery Barn, Lilly etc. just watch for the things I want to go on sale…. I must confess I am a bargain hunter.

  85. Angela Drum says:

    We just recently refinished our hardwood flooring. I loved the change so much that I decided to repaint our light grey living room to a warm white SW Greek Villa and it looks like a completely different room. It is truly amazing what a change in paint color does to freshen a room. Thanks for these tips.

  86. Stephanie says:

    Yvonne,
    Thank you for the ideas on updating a tired room. I shared one of your posts with a friend this week on choosing the right paint color. Your suggestions are always so helpful. I also liked one of your go-to pants suggestions from Talbots recently and ordered a pair myself. I am waiting for them to be delivered this week. Thanks again for the excellent ideas. You have a lovely home and it is always inspiring.

  87. Michelle R. says:

    I like the neutral color pallet. I am working on weeding out what I don’t need and outdated items.

  88. Micaela Brundage says:

    Thinking about reupholstering my couch… any thoughts on affordable fabric and where to buy???

    1. Hi Michaela (love your name), the one thing you don’t want to scrimp on is fabric. Buy a performance or fabric that can clean up easily if you are buying a light color. You will be so so thankful you did!

  89. All practical ideas! I enjoy your weekly blogs and Friday recipes.

  90. Deborah D says:

    I’ve followed you for years and always enjoy and use your decorating tips and ideas.

  91. Love your Wednesday Wishlist!

  92. Love your neutrality in decor. I have changed my sofa and two chairs and are adding pops of color. Many compliments so far. Looking forward to every Wednesday for suggestions. Such a great idea!

  93. Love your neutrality in decor. I have changed my sofa and two chairs and are adding pops of color. Many compliments so far. Looking forward to every Wednesday for suggestions. Such a great idea!

  94. Susan Lambert says:

    Hopefully implementing your suggestions for some updating in my future! Such doable & great advice! Thanks!

  95. Pamela J. Brittain says:

    making a list of things to buy to update my bedroom now! Thanks for the info!

  96. Valerie Bouchard says:

    Can’t wait to put these tips into action!

  97. Erica Freeman says:

    I LOVE everything about this post! The zebra hide rug is my favorite!

  98. Saundra J Simpson says:

    Excellent advise as always, Thank You.

  99. Debbie Sleamon says:

    Before reading this article I over decorated. I thought the more the better right? Wrong! Now my living room is so cozy and comfortable but doesn’t look cluttered!

  100. Diane Vasti says:

    I love your white buffet. Is that a solid white or is it heavily distressed? It is hard to tell. Is it the Harbor View 11 collection from Liberty Furniture? Could you post the link as to where you purchased it?

    1. The buffet is not distressed it is painted a solid white. Yes, it is the same buffet.

  101. Hi Patsy, I have had these pottery lanterns I use as vases for over a decade. They came from Pottery Barn but they have not been in stock for quite awhile. Sorry!

  102. Thanks for the tips— I’ll definitely use them for my spring refresh! I have sentimental tchotchkes from my mom and mother in law; I’m going to keep only a couple from each. You inspire me!

  103. I recently having major foot surgery. After viewing your site, I can’t hardly wait until I can walk again, so I can start working toward trying to make my home look half as beautiful as your home. Reading your post, and viewing your lovely home, makes me want to try and get up and do something to my space and make it is half as beautiful as yours. Can’t wait until warm weather is here and I’m all healed, and got my life back. So I can get to work on my home again..
    Thanks for sharing

    1. God bless you in your recovery, Ivory! I’m sure your home will be perfect1

  104. As always, you have search brilliant ideas, and I often try to use them to help make my home at least half as appealing as yours. Thanks for sharing.

      1. Kay Strait says:

        Where did you get your living room rug and all your pillows? Tha ks!!! KAY

  105. Lurania Santo says:

    Hello…

    Am I seeing double….I find similar posts on your blog as well as
    Ann Sutton…they seem to repeat. Many articles. What’s going on with that?

    1. You are not seeing double, Lurania! What’s going on is every week we have a post called Wednesday Weekly Wishlist. Lory from Designthusiam, Ann from On Sutton Place and me, together post a list of 10 fun, informative things. And all three of us put them on one another’s blogs. Ann and I also have very similar interests so we might write about the same topics. So that’s “whats up with that”.

  106. Hello!

    Above you mentioned slipcovers. I have looked at so many, but none have jumped at me. Do you have suggestions of possibilities for a chair? Very traditional chair and ottoman and would love a locate slipcovers for both.

    Thanks,
    Judy

    1. Hi Judy, I used a neutral duck fabric for our sofa and it has stood the test of time. So easy to take off and wash. I would suggest that you find a professional seamstress to make a slipcover for your chair, if you have not made a slipcover before. Hope this helps.