One of the most exciting and rewarding aspects of having a new home is the ability to personalise it.
Your home should be a reflection of your individual style, whatever that may be.
The latest overall trend today is individuality and moreover, personalisation. Nowadays we have the ability and technology to customise anything, whether it is a new pair of sneakers, the colour of our hair and even the sex of an unborn child.
Yet few people concentrate on personalising their most prized possession: their home! This space is often neglected as most homeowners get stuck on the question of “how can I personalise my space and put an individual imprint on it?” and would rather follow other trends.
Nothing makes a house a home more than putting "you" into it. Personalising your chosen space will not only add that "homey" feeling in it, but it will create more of a sense of belonging and give you a space to truly express your individuality.
Want to try personalising your own? Help yourself with these guidelines and personalise your way to a house you’d proudly call your "home".
Tips
For overall personalisation it’s a good idea to do a little homework first.
- Ask questions such as what are your interests? Do you travel? Do you enjoy food or music? Your answers will create a base around which styles and themes to go for.
- Collect pictures you like from home décor magazines or search the internet. There are many personalised décor ideas online.
- Collect fabrics, tiles and colour samples that appeal to you. Carry them around with you as you never know when you will be struck with inspiration.
- Be true to you. Your home tells a story about you, so fill it with objects that you enjoy. Decorate for you – not for others.
- Be careful with trends. Trends are great, but not always practical for your lifestyle in years to come. Ask yourself if the trend is the one you’ll want to look at years from now, and if so, how you can make it timeless.
- Plan your design around your most prized items; you can maintain focus and stay true to your style.
Some ideas to start with:
Your living room is a great place to start personalising: This is the place where guests receive a first-hand impression of you. Here you can transform ornamental pieces, by either painting over them with a special paint effect, or stencilling in your family name.
You can also change the bland colour of mats and rugs and replace them with new ones. Instead of the usual picture frames, you can make your own photo collage or create a unique wall design. There are virtually unlimited things to accessorise your living room furniture.
Revamp your furniture: You can transform an old chair into a modern ottoman or reupholster your sofa. Most wooden furniture can be painted over or re-varnished, using special paint effects, thus creating a new piece all on its own. Choose the furniture that you would revamp and are able to revive, not pieces that are better off being disposed of.
Make your bedroom "your" space: While the living room is the best place to express your creativity, personalising your bedroom is more of an intimate makeover.
Here you are allowed to personalise as much as your heart desires. You can post your personal pictures in a hanging collage, or fill a glass cabinet with odds and ends you have collected along your way.
Accessorise with memories: When it come to accessories and ornamental pieces, take your time and buy once. Be sure that your accessories mean something to you and tell your story at the same time.
Don't be afraid of using your grandmother's teapots strung up on the wall, or old books strewn across a coffee table. These touches give meaning and history to your home.
Accessorising with personal objects is the way to give a home your imprint, but always keep in mind your overall style direction. - Maryann Lister
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