Here in San Diego we have a seasonal weather phenomenon known as May Grey and June Gloom. It can be a very cloudy time of year with a series of gray days. I was complaining about it to a coworker from Michigan who told me it’s like that for months there! He suggested I write something about how to spruce up your interior for everyone who gets the seasonal blues.
It’s easy to let grey days get you down, but don’t give in! Even though the weather in Michigan and elsewhere may be dreary, you can brighten up your home, or just one room, easily and affordably using these simple ideas.
- Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint. Even in the same exact color, a new coat of paint goes a long way to improve the look of the room. If you want to change the color completely, online tools like this one from the major paint companies will help you visualize the end result.
- Add more lighting. It seems obvious to add light, but many people overlook this point. When I listed my house, a real estate agent suggested I change out my light bulbs to a higher wattage to make my house seem larger. It really does work! The whole house seemed larger. (Be sure to check your fixtures for the maximum safe wattage to avoid the risk of fires.) Changing lamp shades can also have a huge impact. Or, try adding different types of lighting. If all of your lights are recessed ceiling lights, add a new floor lamp or a pair of table lamps. Accent a plant or a corner of the room with an uplight, or add under-cabinet lighting to help brighten up your work area in the kitchen.
- Introduce something shiny. If you have a dark wall or corner, use a decorative mirror or a collage of small mirrors to reflect light and make that space seem lighter and brighter. In kitchens, or any room with a long wall of cabinets, add some glass doors to bring depth to the area. The before and after results are impressive!
- Freshen up your windows with new window treatments, blinds, shades or drapes. New blinds in light tones or shades in a great new fabric can do wonders! And you don’t need to spend a fortune. Faux wood blinds, pleated shades, roller shades and other window treatments are an affordable way to breathe new life into a room.
- Change your doorknobs. Check out a new finish for your doors: in traditional areas like Michigan, oil-rubbed bronze has been popular. Or you might like the contemporary appeal of brushed nickel. You’ll be amazed what a difference this can make for a relatively small investment. Remember to change your exterior locksets, too for a cohesive look that really improves and updates your home.