NEW YEAR - NEW LOOK!

Adding One Oversize Statement Accessory– Adding a great statement piece to your décor is the perfect way to make a dramatic impact in your space with only a minor investment. By incorporating an oversized piece of art or leaning a large mirror against a wall you create an instant focal point. A red laquered mirrored will catch the eye of every guest to your home. Strategically placed, it can double the perception of space as well as bounce light throughout the room. Marlaina’s Pick: Bungalow 5 Chloe Mirror (bungalow5.com)

Incorporating A New Color With Accessories – One of the simplest ways to update your space is adding in new color! You can do this affordably with by changing out your existing accent pillows with inexpensive new pillows. Toss in instant cozy appeal with a beautiful textured throw blanket. The added layer of texture on your sofa or chair brings in another level of visual interest. Turquoise is one of the coolest colors of the new season and it is a great color partner with almost any color you can think of – beige, red, grey, black, etc. Pillows and throw blankets are great ways to add a splash of color without making a huge investment. Also, adding plants to your scheme is another way to inexpensively and naturally add color and dimension to a space. Area rugs can also add another layer of color and texture to a space. Lamps with funky shades can bring in a dash of color as well. Marlaina’s Pick: Z Gallerie Peacock Lazo Throw (zgallerie.com)

Updating Cabinet Hardware – Freshen up your kitchen with a little nip and tuck, as small changes can go a long way towards updating the look of a tired kitchen. You should choose finishes that compliment the look of your kitchen, but don’t be afraid to be a bit daring with color or shape. Glass and enamel cabinet pulls are available in a variety of colors. My favorites – irregularly shaped crystal knobs in aqua and sleek tubular pulls in Lucite. These looks will bring a hip, rockstar look to your cabinetry with a minimal investment. Marlaina’s Pick: Haute Deco Eclipse Lever Handle (thedoorknobshop.com)

Add Dramatic Lighting – Lighting has the ability to enhance the mood of any room. Ambient or overall, task and accent lighting are the types of lighting every room should have. Lighting can bring dimension and depth to your space. Adding a chandelier to your entryway sets the tone for the rest of your space, and making a statement here can set a great first impression. In the living area, replace dated lighting with trendier table lamps. There are so many great looks in lighting for 2010 that are affordable and can really affect the mood of your space. Marlaina’s Pick: Z Gallerie Glass Links Chandelier (zgallerie.com)

Change Your Paint – Color affects how we feel about a space. Some colors create a soothing, calm atmosphere, while others inspire energy and activity. A harried mom may need relaxing hues surrounding her to bring her back from the edge. A creative type may crave a riot of colors in his space to inspire him. Blues and greens are very restful. Blues in particular is known to lower our heart rates, and they are perfect in bedrooms. TRY Sherwin Williams Meditative SW 6227, Sleepy Blue SW 6225 and Refuge SW 6228. Strong, saturated colors are great for a bold look. They inspire energy in a space. TRY Sherman Williams Enticing Red SW 6600, Gambrol Gold SW 6690, Tigereye SW 6362, and Umber SW 6146. Warm neutrals are a classic scheme. People do not usually have strong preconceptions about the neutral beiges and earth tones that make up a classic scheme. They are not offensive and are perfect for living rooms where a lot of entertaining is usually held. Warm neutrals also inspire calm. Try BM Barely Beige 1066, BM Indian River 985, and BM Olive Branch 2143-30.