Small change - big difference

If you follow me on social media you would have seen that we recently changed the rug in the lounge to something much more fun, colourful and bright. Using colour in your home doesn’t always have to mean redecorating. A simple switch up of the small things can make a big impact and bring more colour joy to your home. So here are my top tips on ways you can do just that.

Bedding

For lots of us, our bed takes up the most amount of space in the bedroom and sits right in the middle of the space. So, why not dress it in something lovely, and show it off! There are loads of options for bedding out there – whether you’re into florals, stripes, gingham, plain, abstract, there will be something out there for you. Just make sure it ties in with the colours in the room – so look at your wall colours, curtains, rugs or accessories as a starting point for your bedding colour.

Cushions

Another easy win! Cushions are very reasonably priced from places like Dunelm and George. Having a few cushions on your sofa can really elevate the look. If you have painted walls and a plain sofa, use cushions as a way to introduce an accent colour and a bit of pattern. You could go all out with different patterns, textures and prints, all keep it relatively simple with plain and stripes, say. Just stick to a tight colour scheme and it will work!

Rugs

There are soooo many different rugs on the market and these are another great way to add colour and impact to a room. If you are going for a plain colour, why not pick a thick pile with lots of texture for added interest. There are modern geometrics, vintage oriental, stripes and scallops and everything in between to choose from.

Lamp shades

Lighting in a room is a necessity but the functionality doesn’t mean we neglect the opportunity to add something attractive to look at! My personal favourites: big drum shades for ceiling pendants – again plenty of interesting ones on the market, and patterned tapered shades for table lamps. Got any scraps of fabric or wallpaper leftover from a project? Why not upcycle a boring lampshade by covering it with leftover materials. Then you get something completely unique!

Artwork and Photos

When you go to someone else’s house do you have a good snoop at their photos and artwork? I know I do! It shows people’s personality – often their family and friends, their travels, their interests. Every picture tells a story. And of course every photograph, print or piece of artwork adds colour! Whether it’s children’s artwork pinned up, a gallery of family photos, a graphic design print, or a masterpiece, all can bring colour and joy to your walls.

Tableware/kitchen

Finally, lets not neglect thinking about colour in the kitchen. There are ample opportunities to bring colour in in small ways. Think tea towels, table cloths, plates and glasses. I have seen lots of lovely table spreads recently where the crockery is patterned and mis-matched and it works wonderfully! You can even get coloured appliances to sit on your worktop to add an accent and further interest. Pink kettle anyone?