Is your living room looking a little bland? Does it need a little
freshening? If so, consider adding a little excitement by adding some
new colors. There are plenty of easy ways to do it.
Add a Piece of Art
A
large, colorful piece of art becomes an instant focal point when hung
in a bland room. Fortunately large pieces of art are far more
accessible than they used to be with websites like art.com
and big box stores selling large pieces for reasonable prices. Of
course original pieces are always lovely if you’re interested in making
an investment.
Slipcover the Sofa or Chairs
For an
instant and dramatic update consider getting a colorful slipcover for
your sofa or chairs. This is not necessarily an inexpensive option
(custom slipcovers can be almost as expensive as a new sofa) but it’s
definitely easy. Slipcovers come in a wide variety of colors and styles,
and if you can’t find one that you want you can always have one custom
made. Simply slip it over your existing piece and you’ve got a brand new
look.
Display Fresh Flowers
Nothing brightens up a room like
a display of fresh flowers. Flowers add instant color and immediately
draw attention. What’s particularly great about flowers is that every
color and combination works together, so it’s a great way to experiment
with colors you wouldn’t normally put together.
Pillows and Throws
Adding
pillows and throws is one of the most popular ways to add color to a
living room. They’re available in a wide variety of price points so you
can go as posh as you want, and change them as frequently as you want.
For maximum impact change them with the seasons - fresh and bright in
the summer, deep and rich in the winter.
Put Down an Area Rug
The
color you have on the floor sets the tone for the whole room. It has
just as big an impact as the color that goes on the wall. So if you want
to add a significant pop to your room, try putting down a strongly
colored area rug.
Paint a Piece of Furniture
Painting
a piece of furniture is a cheap and easy way to add color to a room.
While most people think of painting second-hand pieces in order to
upcycle, you can also paint newer pieces - just make sure you prepare
the surface properly so that the paint adheres. Consider painting a
side table, console, or even the frame of an upholstered chair. And if
you really want to make a statement opt for a bright color in a glossy
finish.
Paint the Molding
For a unique and
unexpected look, consider painting your trim and molding a different
color than the walls. This can be a tricky look to pull off, but it can
also look fabulous when done right. Consider the color carefully and be
sure to choose a color that compliments the walls - or something that's
a total contrast if you're interested in color blocking. Of course if your walls are white, the possibilities are endless!
Wallpaper the Back of a Bookshelf
An easy way to add color and pattern
without making a big statement is to wallpaper the back of a bookshelf.
A really easy way to do it is to cut foam board to the desired sizes
and then adhere the wallpaper to it. Then you can place it in the back
of each shelf without having to worry about cutting everything to size.
By Lauren Flanagan
Family & Living Rooms Expert
