It’s a New Year! Refresh your Home in Nine Easy Steps.

Swapping out tired, worn items, organizing our most-used spaces, and decluttering our surroundings are shown to increase productivity and decrease stress. We also can’t ignore the reality that homes that get a regular “refresh” are homes we want to be in. Read on for simple ways to revive your abode - no big ticket expenses required!

Sub in some new soft. The foundation of any home rejuvenation is fresh linens, in large part because we interact intimately with our sheets and towels daily. Now’s the time to play with trendy colors (winter blue, anyone?) or incorporate Pantone’s “color of the year.” And no guilt here - old towels and sheets can gain a second life: tired towels are perfect for absorbing life’s spills, and sheets are ideal as a ground cover for projects or furniture-topper when needed.

Rework shelving. Old manuals, loose papers, and broken bric-a-brac can drain a room of energy. Start by shredding paperwork you no longer need, file the rest, and fix or discard what’s damaged. From there, the fun begins. Place flowers, favorite momentos, pictures, and books in your bookcases, making your space one you’ll want to seek out rather than avoid.

Swap out fleecy furnishings. Clever use of pillows, throws, and rugs are an effective way to give your home a boost of vitality. Textiles are not only more economical to update, but also physically easier to play around with than furniture. For the greatest savings, borrow accessories from other rooms and give them a new life in a different area.

Upcycle old furniture. With hosting over for the season and the need for extra seating behind you, it’s time to reupholster a vintage piece or family heirloom. If you’re overwhelmed by fabric options, turn to a professional at your upholsterers’ studio - most have a designer’s eye and can guide you toward a pattern that’s right for you and your space.

Change home fragrances. As much as we love pine scents permeating our homes, shifting to an alternative woodsy and rich scent is an easy way to harken in the new year.

Switch in seasonal flowers. Post-holiday, there’s no quicker way to freshen your sanctuary than thinking ahead to spring flowers. Say goodbye to the poinsettias that have filled your home’s corners and bring in something that exudes “springtide.”