Wednesday, June 2, 2010

A reflection of you

‘Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai’ (every home says something) goes a popular commercial. True. Homes today are more than just four walls. They are an extension of the personality of people who dwell in it.


A new home is an exciting prospect and doing it up adds to the all the fun surrounding it. As for the revamping process, the market is full of myriad options and choices that suit all budgets. Even if you hire the services of an architect, make sure it is your voice that is being heard.

“I feel homes are evolving spaces and need to connect with your own sense of self, comfort and living. Do it bit by bit and avoid rushing into ‘want to do it all at one go’ situation. Look at the various elements that compose a home — walls, floor, lighting, furniture, objects, art and functionality, together in order to create a single theme rather than only looking at individual pieces,” says Mukul Goyal, Creative Director, Designwise.
You can use simple ideas like having a different colour theme for each room and then work on ancillary aspects. Likewise, choosing similar furniture as a common theme for the house would make the task much simpler. Again, a plethora of designs, colours, shapes and sizes are available to suit your need. The idea is to know what you want and need.

Trends
The latest trend in home décor is very much influenced by current economic and social trends.

In the post-recession economy, focus on green living, simplicity and hope for the future, all comprise the trends for 2010. “Fresh lively colours, which indicate optimism in life are back in vogue. As the spring season reflects renewed life, various hues like vibrant violet, warm tangerine, sunny yellow and grass green in fabrics, paints and accessories are in. Also, colours like blue and green are hot favourites, but with variations.

Floral designs and patterns (inclusive of floral colours) will continue to rule in areas such as products and themes. As far as furniture is concerned, wooden furniture has always been a big draw. Ethnic decorations with a royal-touch are in focus again. Traditional, Victorian looking tables, lamps tea sets are back,” says Vandana Khosla, Creative Director, ELVY.

“I only believe that the eclectic trend is getting stronger. People are far more aware of what they like and this is combined with so many materials and options available for all home domains! It could send your head in a tizzy,” says Goyal. He suggests never to follow any trends just for the sake of it. Instead the process needs to be according to your personal tastes and preferences.

Budget makeovers

Often giving homes a makeover involves working within a budget. The constraints of having to work under financial challenges make the task itself more interesting. “Budgets are beautiful as they challenge you and your creativity. One only needs to do more research on options available and get creative to make it aesthetically satisfying,” opines Goyal. Several experts feel that there is absolutely no need to spend large amounts on changing home decor.

A few simple steps can give your home a whole new fresh feel.
“Repaint using existing colours, just to freshen up the rooms, or choose a whole new colour palette. Painting is an inexpensive decorating option. Judge your furniture. Replace any old, broken or tarnished pieces. Rearrange the rest in a comfortable and attractive way. Also cane, bamboo, blocks boards can be used, which are not all that expensive.
Change your curtains. Shop for the best deals. It will automatically add a new look to your house.

Add more pillows to beds, sofas and chairs. You can either buy them or make your own.
Update framed family photos around the house and place a few new inexpensive décor products too,” explains Khosla. Finally, keep it clean because simplicity is elegant. This transition and change needs to be a well thought out process. It’s important because once you have changes around your home, you have to live with them.

Remember, the cardinal rule is that quality never goes out of fashion and a little investment can do wonders to provide a makeover to your personal space.
Do up your home the way you want to. After all, home is where the heart is!
DH

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