By Jamie Knodel
The Dallas Morning News.
It’s easy to embrace all things new and fresh at the start of a year. Interiors are no different.
While it might be tempting to start all over and go for an entire overhaul, you shouldn’t rule out theimpact a few simple changes can make to refresh a room, says Dallas designer Sarah Pickard of Pickard Design Studio.
“There are some very simple things such as changing paint colors, changing out throw pillows and replacing lampshades, but let’s get a bit more creative and make a true design difference,” says Pickard, who urges reliable, achievable tweaks to add an unexpected pop to a room.
METALS’ MOMENT
Brushed brass and rose gold have been popping up in interiors and fashion for more than a year. Now’s the time to add some to your own space, says Pickard.
Introduce the look into your kitchen with updated cabinet hardware, and say goodbye to chrome or satin nickel finishes.
“The warm gold finishes look beautiful with cool gray tones that are prevalent in kitchens today,” she says.
Beyond cabinet hardware, experts at Dallas’ Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery say that adding rose gold elements, whether with a faucet, hood, lighting fixture or range knobs, is an easy way to add glamour.
Feeling ambitious? Pickard suggests taking the update even further by painting dark, stained cabinets a shade of gray or combining stain and paint to really showcase the new hardware.
ADD AN ACCENT
An accent wall isn’t a new idea, but rather than going for paint, make a bold commitment to a large-scale wall covering.
Consider natural materials, metallic finishes, contrasting colors and bold patterns.
“Make this wall or space a conversation piece in your home,” says Pickard.
Remove, or simply relocate, a collection of artwork you haven’t been happy with, and let your walls be your artwork, she says.
DRAB TO FAB
If you won’t ditch that piece of furniture you’re tired of, it’s time to re-imagine it at least.
“We all have a piece we wouldn’t dare get rid of because it is a family heirloom, a special gift, but the style no longer works in your home,” says Pickard.
Lacquering furniture is an inexpensive way to change the look, add an unexpected pop of color to a room and create a conversation piece.
“Go bold with color and change the hardware,” she says. “It’s only paint!”
