Local interior designer, Joy O’Keefe, takes us through some of her tips for the best of festive decoration….
The festive season is upon us and with so much doom and gloom out there between the recession and the floods, its time to get into the festive spirit and spread some Christmas cheer! (Let’s face it; we all need cheering up at the moment!) Let me wave my magic Christmas decorating wand and sprinkle you with inspiration for your home
As money is tight this year, over the next 3 weeks I aim to bring you some clever ideas and tricks of the trade to transform your home this Christmas. Style on a shoestring, mixing cheap n’ cheerful Christmas decorations and accessories with a touch of luxury, glamour and sophistication to bring the sparkle back into your life this Christmas! So just because the lights went on in town, the warning lights don’t have to go flashing in your head!
Where to begin, you say? With so much to do and so little time left to do it
First things first!
Here are my top tips to get the house looking tip top for Christmas, without breaking the bank!
Use colour;
Paint is relatively inexpensive and warm colours throughout the house can create an instantly welcoming and inviting feeling. You don’t have to over do it though, just re-paint the chimney breast wall in the living or dining room in a warm colur such as red, terracotta or wine.(why not try this seasons hottest colour,purple?) This will instantly add warmth, glamour and light the way for a certain very important man!! Paint the hall in a welcoming and cheerful golden yellow or peach for a warm, inviting atmosphere to welcome guests.
Use wallpaper,
With wallpaper after making the hottest comeback in years, there are some fantastic patterns, colours and metallic finishes available from most DIY outlets and at a reasonable prices. Why not get papering?? Choose a simple pattern and just do one feature wall to add impact. Get the man in your life to do it, and it’ll keep him busy for the weekend! A good task for all the DIY enthusiasts out there!! Match a few new cushions and throws to tie in with the colour or pattern you’ve chosen and Hey Presto! Instant Transformation!
Use fabric;
Cushions and throws are a great way to give any room a fresh new look and revamp a tired sofa! Bring the look bang up to date with an assortment of cushions in jewel colours (red, orange, purple, green, turquoise and gold.) to bring life to the dullest, drabbest interior.
Drape a variety of blankets and throws in co-coordinating colours over couches and chairs to introduce colour, warmth, pattern and texture and style! This not only makes the room look great but also gives you something to snuggle into on a cold winters eve!
Use texture
Choose fabrics in different textures for added impact. Choose cushions, throws and even curtains (these days ready made curtains are great for a quick change) in luxurious fabrics such as velvets and silks and chenille. Throws in textural faux suede, fun fur and leatherette (for the animal lover and ethically minded) Fabrics with a hint of metallic, golds, coppers or bronze add instant glamour and an air of sophistication!
Use Rugs
Wooden floors and worn out carpets could use some TLC at this time of year, so why not treat those tired old’ floors to a new lease of life with a rug? Rugs are a great way to bring warmth to a cold wooden floor and hide that stubborn stain on the carpet as well as injecting some much needed warmth, colour, pattern and texture. Be brave, a rug isn’t permanent so you can afford to be bold in your choice of colour and pattern! For a traditional festive look, go for red, wine and gold in traditional patterns .For a more contemporary look, opt for purple or burnt orange chenille.
Use lamps
Lighting is a great way to add instant warmth and ambiance. Add a new lamp in a bold, dramatic colour to that dreary, dark corner of the room. Replace tired shades with some colourfull new ones for an instant uplift! Make use of the wonderful array of different bulbs on the market from pearl and soft-tone (to create a soft glow) to daylight simulation bulbs (to simulate daylight indoors on dull days). Make sure you’re using the correct wattage and always check the recommended manufacturer’s guidelines for safety.
Getting the house ready for Christmas doesn’t have to be stressful. A bit of colour here a DIY job there! Should have the place looking ship shape and warm and inviting in no time! Small changes make a big difference!
Next week, styling the perfect Christmas tree and choosing timeless, elegant decorations to suit any pocket!
Happy Decorating!
Contact Joy @ JoyDesign on 0851449698 for a consultation in time for Christmas or to ask about my Tree styling and window dressing service! Why not give a consultation voucher as a Christmas gift to someone special? Ask about my special offer of a 20% discount for readers of the Limerick Post if booked in the next two weeks!
