Quick Updates, Big Impact

Tatum
11 minutes ago
3 min read

Hello Decor Friends,

This past week, the decorating question I’ve been asked the most is: “How can I refresh my space without a full redesign?” It’s such a great question because the truth is, you don’t need a complete makeover to make your home feel fresh, seasonal, and stylish. Small, DIY-friendly updates can make a big impact—and often cost very little.

Here are my top five ideas to breathe new life into your rooms without starting from scratch:

1. Restyle Your Shelves

Shelves are like little stages in your home—they set the tone for the entire room. A quick DIY project is to take everything off and start fresh. Group items in odd numbers, mix textures (glass, wood, metal), and add in something natural like a plant or bowl of pinecones, depending on the season. Don’t be afraid to “shop your home” and move items from one room to another. Sometimes a vase or frame just needs a new backdrop to feel new again.

2. Swap Out Textiles

Throw pillows, blankets, and even small area rugs are some of the easiest ways to change a room’s mood. For a DIY-friendly approach, consider sewing simple pillow covers with seasonal fabrics, or use no-sew iron-on hem tape if you’re not into sewing. Even just changing pillow inserts for a fuller look can give your seating area an upgrade.

Designer Tip

Did you know there’s a simple trick to make your pillows look like they came straight out of a design magazine? ✨ Use an insert that’s one size larger than your pillow cover. For example, if you have an 18” x 18” cover, try slipping in a 20” x 20” insert. The result? Plush, full, and perfectly plump pillows that instantly elevate your sofa or bed. It’s such an easy swap to refresh the ones you already have—no shopping spree required!

3. Create a DIY Art Moment

Blank walls or tired artwork can drag down a space. An easy fix? DIY art. Frame pretty fabric swatches, pages from an old book, or pressed leaves for a unique and personal touch. If you have kids, let them paint on a canvas and mix it into your gallery wall—it adds personality and a great conversation starter.

4. Update Lighting the Easy Way

Good lighting is key to a cozy, inviting space. Swap lampshades for a new style or color, or use a DIY trick like wrapping the base in rope, fabric, or even wallpaper for a custom look. If you’re comfortable with simple wiring, changing out a ceiling fixture can be done in an afternoon and makes a dramatic difference.

5. Add Greenery (Real or Faux)

Plants instantly make a space feel alive. You don’t need a green thumb either—many DIY tutorials show how to pot faux stems in soil or moss for a realistic look. If you want to go natural, pick up fresh seasonal stems from the grocery store and arrange them in a clear vase. This simple addition brings color, texture, and life into any room.

Refreshing your space doesn’t mean gutting it or breaking the bank. By restyling shelves, swapping textiles, creating DIY art, updating lighting, and adding greenery, you can give your home a brand-new feel in just a few hours. The best part? Each of these projects is doable without special tools or a designer budget.

So, Decor Friends, which of these ideas will you try first?