As a professional interior designer, I’m often asked for advice on how to refresh a home without breaking the bank or spending weeks on renovations. The good news? In this blog post, it is all about smart updates that maximize impact while minimizing effort and cost. Here are my top tips for breathing new life into your space and adding personality, charm, and functionality.
1. Declutter and Rearrange
Sometimes, the most transformative changes don’t cost a thing. Start by decluttering—clear out items that no longer serve you or spark joy. Once your space feels lighter, try rearranging furniture. A new layout can make a room feel entirely different. For example:
Living Room: Move your sofa to face a window to emphasize natural light.
Bedroom: Shift your bed to a new wall and add a statement rug underneath.
Bathroom: Clear the decks and get organised with aesthetically pleasing storage ideas, for all your lotions and potions. You'll be amazed how much calmer and larger the space will look.
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2. Fresh Paint for an Instant Lift
Painting is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to refresh a room. In 2025, earthy tones like terracotta, sage green, and fresh uplifting greens are trending.
Accent Walls: Highlight one wall in a bold colour to create a focal point.
Ceilings: Don’t neglect the fifth wall! A soft hue can add unexpected charm, or colour drench the whole space for a bold impact.
3. Play with Tiles
Tiles are versatile, durable, and incredibly stylish in 2025. Here’s how you can use them to transform your home:
Kitchen Splashbacks: Swap out your old splashback for characterful, rustic tiles. Moroccan-inspired designs or bold geometric prints are excellent options. This small change can make your kitchen feel brand new.
Bathroom Feature Walls: Over-tile a single wall to create a stunning focal point in your bathroom. Use large-format tiles with a marble or textured finish for a luxurious vibe, or experiment with bold, colourful murals to add playfulness.
Entryways and Boot rooms Add a statement tile floor to these areas for a chic, welcoming touch.
4. Update Hardware and Fixtures
Swapping out old cabinet handles, drawer pulls, and light fixtures can make a huge difference. Consider modern, matte-black finishes or timeless brushed brass. Don’t overlook taps in a kitchens, a sleek new tap can elevate the entire space.
5. Layer Textures and Accessories
Transform your home’s ambiance with textiles and decor. In 2025, texture is key:
Cushions and Throws: Mix and match fabrics like linen, chunky knitted fabrics, and bouclé for depth. A simple cushion refresh can really update a living room.
Rugs: Add a large area rug or layer smaller ones for a cozy effect.
Artwork: Rotate your art or add a gallery wall to make the space feel curated and fresh. I love moving around the art in my home, you be surprised the impact it has and the way certain pieces will take on a new lease of life in a new setting..
6. Bring Nature Indoors
Biophilic design is still going strong in 2025. Introduce plants of varying sizes to add vibrancy and life to your rooms.
7. Don’t Forget Outdoor Spaces
Refresh your patio or balcony with simple updates:
Lighting: Use string lights or solar-powered lanterns to add interest during the dark weeks ahead.
Plants: Potted plants and herbs and winter flowering plants can transform even the smallest outdoor area.
Refreshing your home doesn’t have to mean a complete overhaul. With these simple yet impactful tips, you can create a space that feels fresh, stylish, and perfectly suited to your life in 2025. Happy decorating!
