When the leaves fall from the trees and the weather turns chilly, it’s time to re-style the family room for winter. You don’t need a big decorating budget or weeks of remodeling to take your room from summer chic to winter retreat.
Before
After
- Design Tip: The key to a successful fall re-styling project is layering fabrics, textures and colors. Think wool, tweed and quilts.
The loveseat had great bones, but the fabric was starting to show wear.
I’m not a fan of slip covers unless they are custom-made for the piece of furniture. I would rather see worn fabric than an ugly cover that doesn’t fit! If reupholstery isn’t in the budget, look for a pretty blanket, fabric or quilt to update a sofa or chair. Years of washing made this vintage quilt soft and luxurious.
You cannot live in the Midwest without a throw to snuggle under on chilly nights. A traditional wool plaid blanket is not only warm, but is a nice contrast against the quilt.
- Design Tip: Pillows are the easiest and least expensive way to re-style a room.
- Design Tip: I prefer feather and down pillow inserts to foam (scrunchier and softer). Instead of buying expensive fabric pillows, look for interesting shirts and tops to make your own custom covers.
Animal prints are not only big in fashion, but in home interiors as well. Cut a shirt to fit the form, leaving a 1 inch seam allowance. Sew up 3 sides, insert form and close up opening with a few hand stitches.
Even easier is to cut a strip from a shirt. Fold under raw edges and attach the ends to the back with a safety pin. No sewing necessary!
- Design Tip: Shop your own house. Borrow items from other rooms. You can get a whole new look without spending a cent!
I replaced the rug with a wool runner and added a small table (both found in another room).
I kept the same pictures on the wall, arranged a few items on the table and changed the lamp shade (borrowed from another lamp).
The room has a completely different look and feel. It’s so cozy, you will want to sit down and stay awhile.
In an afternoon, I completely transformed a family friendly room!
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