PROPERTY NEWS - Whether you've just moved into an new, unfamiliar house, or you're simply tired from years of living in a space that never quite suited you, there are easy tactics you can employ to put the "sweet" back in "home sweet home" this year.
Fill the spots you hate with stuff that you love
If you loathe the busy wallpaper in the hallway, cover it with a gallery wall of family photos. Can't figure out what to do with an oddly placed shelf the previous owners hung? Place some special knick-knacks there to reclaim it as your own.
Don't underestimate the power of a houseplant
A well-placed succulent or fern can bring life (literally) into a dull space. They're simply beautiful, can camouflage eyesores, and offer an organic design punch. Plus, numerous studies have shown that a bit of greenery can improve your health and well-being.
Fix minor annoyances
Set aside a weekend to take a lap around your house with your tool kit, and repair all of the little things that drive you bonkers. Patch tiny holes, tighten fixtures, and nail trim back into place. You'll feel so much better when you're not tripping over that loose baseboard or fighting with a wiggly doorknob every day.
When in doubt, try a tray
If your space is too small for your everyday necessities, corralling the clutter can help things feel more tidy. Park a cute tray on your coffee table to hold catalogues and magazines, place one in your entryway for keys and gloves, and use another on your nightstand to drop jewellery, eyeglasses, and bedside reading.
Pick up some pillows
They're inexpensive, colourful and cosy. Plus, they instantly freshen up that worn-out couch you just can't replace right now.
Create conversation spaces
It makes sense to face all of your living room furniture directly toward the TV. But create a spot where chairs face each other, too. This will foster a close-knit vibe amongst your family and visitors and encourage fulfilling conversations you might not have had otherwise.
Invite the neighbours over
If you're new in town, get to know the people who live next door by hosting a dinner party or game night. Soon, happy memories will fill your space - you might develop a soft spot for that cramped dining nook or awkwardly shaped living room.
Make your bed every day
This simple task starts your day off on the right foot, and you'll appreciate slipping into a tidy sleeping space each evening. Plus, research shows that making your bed might help you develop good habits all day long.
Go for a walk (or a drive)
If you're not in love with a space, it's obviously best to just leave it every now and then. Get out and clear your head, or hop in your car and explore a section of town you haven't seen yet. You might just discover the park bench, coffee shop, or bookstore that makes you feel right at home.
Focus on silver linings
Don't have a dishwasher? Turns out hand-washing dishes might be healthier for your kids. Dealing with a dim bedroom? The lack of light could foster a great night's sleep. Sad you don't have a dining room? That's just less square footage to dust, vacuum, and furnish!
Source: www.goodhousekeeping.com
'We bring you the latest Garden Route, Karoo, Hessequa news'
