4 TIPS FOR DECORATING YOUR HOME

1) Stay neutral

Choose a wallpaper with a neutral color, like beige, to decorate your walls and stick to the same color throughout the house. You'll save money buying the same pattern in bulk and you won't have to change in a few years if you change your mind about feature walls in contrasting colors or bold patterns that tend to date quickly.

2) Natural light

Stylists love to take advantage of natural light to show off a home's best features. Choose curtains or window coverings that allow plenty of natural light into rooms during the day but still offer privacy at night.

3) Careful clutter

Stylists are experts at placing specific ornaments or decorative items in just the right places to make shelves appear useful without seeming cluttered. Take an objective look at your shelves and countertops and remove any clutter. Then choose a few carefully selected pieces to keep out on display.

4) Small touches

Professional home stylists know that the small touches in each room are what truly create character. A potted plant in the kitchen window can create a splash of color. An elegant vase with a fresh flower on the table, or an umbrella stand in the corner of the hall helps create visual interest. Small touches create lasting effects.

The key to giving your home a chic, updated style is all about making the best of what you have. Not only will you save your budget, but you'll also be showing off your personal style at the same time.