Holiday Home Refresh

As we anxiously await the new year, I think it's safe to say we're all looking forward to the healthier, happier days that lie ahead. In the meantime, it’s a perfect time to tackle those lingering design upgrades. When it comes to DIY projects, a little effort can go a long way – and a lot of effort can create a masterpiece! Even small upgrades can add significant value and you’ll reap the added benefits of having a fresh perspective for the upcoming year!

1. Paint the Guest Room

If you have a guest room, consider yourself #blessed. It's likely doing double duty as a homeschool office, a workout room, or an escape room for some coveted alone time. One of the quickest ways to update the look of any room is to change the wall color. Paint is the most cost-effective and dramatic way to create a new look. If you want to keep things calm and serene, try any of the neutrals from our 2021 Color Collection. Or, take an opportunity to express your DIY designer side with an on-trend tone like Bella Donna (C2-782) or Savannah (C2-543). Contrary to popular belief, dark colors don't necessarily make rooms appear smaller - they can often do the opposite. A guest room is the perfect place to showcase your unique style, so don't hold back!

2. Create an Accent Wall

If you are limited on space, then painting an accent wall is a great way to change things up without fully committing to a color. Here are a few ways to approach it:

• Tone on Tone - Adding a darker color of the same hue as the rest of the room creates a depth and a sophisticated feel. You can even take it up to the ceiling for extra intrigue.
• Create Contrast – Make the wall pop using an unexpected color.
• Go Geo – Whatever the color, get creative with it. Try out geometric color blocking for an artistic twist.
• Try Texture - Install an Anaglypta textured wallpaper and paint over it with your favorite color. 

3. Paint the Ceiling

Imagine if Michelangelo Sistine Chapel overlooked this space! Often referred to as the 5th wall, the ceiling is a large, visible area that can change the entire feel of a room if given some love and attention. A different sheen finish like a gloss or semi-gloss will add some shine, depth, and personality. Click here to see 6 Steps to a Spectacular Ceiling! 

4. Add Wainscoting 

If you are looking for something a bit more permanent, wainscoting or shiplap is a beautiful way to make a room feel brand new! To save money and time on actual wainscoting, paint the wall 3 feet up from the bottom in a color like Sheer (C2-804), then buy large frames or molding strips, paint them the same color, and glue along the wall to create the perfect illusion of expensive detailed craftsmanship. Paint a contrast color to the inside of the frames for a final, designer-inspired touch.

5. Paint the Door

Nothing gives your home a dramatic look for minimal effort like painting the front door a refreshing new color! To spruce up your curb appeal, choose a bold color that complements your siding. To refresh the interior, paint the inside of the door a color that will enhance the space's design and décor (either one that adds a pop of color or that carries the color from one space to another). Painting the front door can be changed so quickly that you can even paint your door according to the season. For a festive front door, try Firefly (C2-567). It's a personal "welcome home" statement for yourself!

6. Painted a Piece of Furniture

Give an essential piece of furniture new life by giving it some TLC before the holidays. Select a furniture piece that can make a statement, like an old credenza or a coffee table. Try choosing a color that will set the piece apart from the background. For example, if your walls are white, try painting your furniture piece a deep blue like Newport (C2-744). Add some jeweled or hammered hardware to top off the look. And maybe get a glass top cut so you can use the underside for decoupage or a photo grouping. 

No matter how you decide to update your home, choosing the right colors is an essential step. Make sure to order or pick up color samples so you can view the color as the light changes throughout the day. C2 Color Tools are made from real premium eggshell paint – not printed reproductions – so your color is always spot on. Experiment with monochromatic color schemes, or go for high-contrasting palettes.

Here's to your holiday hustle!