Add ‘Finishing Touches’ to Your Fall Fix-up List...
By Sandy Dixon, Interior Arrangements, Inc. ©2004
Most homeowners know what type of fix-up work needs to be done on their
homes before winter settles in. Whether it’s installing storm windows,
painting, weatherproofing or shutting down the irrigation system, there
is plenty of challenging exterior projects to tackle.
In addition to these larger and often times tedious endeavors, there are
a number of simpler and more rewarding home improvements that can be
done on the interior that will improve the appearance of your home and
create a comfortable haven for enjoying the winter months.
Some simple home fix-ups to consider this fall would be:
Organizing Systems: Reorganizing and de-cluttering closets, drawers and
cabinets will not only improve the look of your home, but can make it
more efficient. The kitchen pantry is a great place to start as it is
usually stacked with half full boxes or unlabelled storage bags of
snacks, grains, etc. Using plastic storage containers and labels, you
can easily keep track of your food inventory.
TIP: Label machines are an inexpensive way to keep and look organized.
Lighting: One of the most creative tools for enhancing the look of a
room and creating a mood is lighting. A free standing lamp indoors that
provides a cozy reading area or outdoor patio lights that add ambiance
for al fresco dining, will make your home feel more inviting.
TIP: ‘Tack’ your lighting in a triangular pattern to achieve balance and
flow of light throughout the space and to eliminate dark corners.
Artwork: When hanging artwork, position the piece where it is
comfortable visible when seated, not standing. Try to have artwork or
photographs on every other wall, leaving in between walls empty. Notice
the increased focus on the artwork.
Accessories: As with artwork, it’s important to display accessories on
alternating surfaces. Refrain from covering every surface with
collections, memorabilia or knick knacks---alternate with ‘free zones’.
Group ‘like’ items together according to color, finish or theme. 1’s,
3’s and 5’s are generally the most attractive combinations of objects,
when grouping. Place several colorful vases together on a bare shelf for
a bright accent.
Group glass decanters on a dining room sideboard to highlight both the
grouping and the furniture itself.
Present a small collection of objects on a lacquered or metal tray on
your coffee table.
Scents: Scented candles or potpourri, whether fresh pine or the sweet
aroma of vanilla can greatly enhance the mood of a room and transform a
space into a soothing retreat.
Area Rugs: Whether to introduce a splash of color, to anchor a furniture
arrangement and clearly define the function of a room, area rugs are the
perfect solution. They are equally impressive on both hardwood and
carpeted floors.
TIP: For safety and to eliminate shifting, be sure to put rubber padding
under the area rugs. Padding comes specifically made for either carpeted
or hardwood surfaces.
Some of the best home improvements are in the finishing touches…the
little things that make all the difference in making a house a home!
“Home is the ultimate expression of self” ---Thomas Jefferson
Sandy Dixon, owner of Interior Arrangements, Inc. is a Professional Real
Estate Stager and former Realtor. In addition to her redesign services,
she offers training workshops, business coaching and speaking
engagements nationwide. WB2 Television recently did a 2-part series on
one of Sandy’s Staging projects and she is frequently featured in
industry and real estate publications. Sandy can be reached at toll free
1.877.674.8667 or visit her website at
www.interiorarrangements.com.
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