Decorating Tip: Learn To See Things Differently

I find it so inspirational when I see people take products and furniture and use their imaginations to personalize somewhat mundane things into something special. That's the beauty of IKEA. Their price point is affordable and nothing feels precious which gives you freedom to explore your ideas - perhaps a lamp base would look better decoupaged in a favorite paper or a cabinet would be far better with new hardware and wallpaper hung on the inside. learn to see things differently

(Tip: Stack wooden storage boxes and drawers and paint them inside to create a bookcase - this is a look I'm seeing more and more and I love it!)

That's what I love about buying things at vintage stores, flea markets, yard sales and shops that are priced reasonably - like IKEA - you have the freedom to go a little crazy and exercise your creativity. You have the right!

learn to see things differently

(Paint a thick stripe down the center of a table as a "runner" to customize and add visual interest.)

I thought I'd share some of my favorite IKEA inspirations today from their beautiful blog, Livet Hemma. I recognize all of the pieces shown but love seeing the fresh updates each have been given by the creative team behind the Livet Hemma blog. It's so inspirational and fun! It also shows that IKEA pieces can be quite special and do not have to be left 'as is', but can become something special to you and your family.

learn to see things differently

(Tip: Some vintage pieces add character to a space so consider using them to avoid your room from looking like it all came from a single catalog.)

learn to see things differently

(Tip: A low cabinet works nicely for displaying favorite things and for storing boxes and books underneath. In a mostly white space, use different tones of white to avoid a clinical look and by all means, go with lots of different textures to warm up white - wool, knit, ceramic, glossy, matte, cotton, linen, etc.)

learn to see things differently

(Tip: Add a little green to all white space, plants give texture, color and are good for purifying the air in your home.)

learn to see things differently

(Tip: Paint furniture in chalky matte colors to make them look vintage.)

learn to see things differently

(Tip: Paint cabinet doors in different colors that you love.)

learn to see things differently

(Tip: Try layering mirrors and frames, leaning them against the wall.)

Another decorating tip: When you look at anything for your home, it's great to use your imagination and to not always see what you're looking at but to imagine how it could be. Look at the shape of a piece, think of alternate uses, imagine how it would look painted in a fresh color, visualize a dresser for instance without the drawers and used as a bookcase instead... There are so many things our imagination can dream up if you only give yourself the permission to do it and so I say, have fun, follow with your heart and happy decorating!

(images: ikea livet hemma)

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