Although redesigning your home’s spaces can be exciting, cost and disruption can limit your enthusiasm. A more sustainable approach is a timeless color palette and classic style implemented with the highest-quality materials and accessories you can afford. As you crave a fresh look, you can build on the solid foundation established without significant remodeling.
Invest Wisely
Avoid fads when constructing your baseline. Consider the type of home design that offers you and your family the most comfortable ambiance and put it in place. Remember that different spaces in your dwelling can vary in style, considering their purpose, but a unifying design helps the overall flow. If the “bones” of your home’s design are good, you can gradually adjust its purpose and look over the years by adding or switching out furnishings and accents. Buying the highest grade of furniture, for example, means reupholstering rather than repurchasing is an option. You also can quickly and inexpensively upgrade floor coverings and window treatments.
Plan Practically
Use built-in features to streamline the storage and use of appliances and other possessions. For example, add kitchen appliance garages to declutter counter space. Keep integrated cabinets and shelving in all rooms somewhat generic to accommodate the passing of time—bookshelves transform into a handmade pottery gallery or a place to display children’s and grandchildren’s projects and pictures.
Look to the Future
Design once and adapt. A young family benefits from a main-floor mud and laundry room combination, accessible from a garage or patio. As children grow, places to stash strollers or toddler-supply backpacks for parents become a home “locker room” for sports or recreation equipment.
With these tips, you can enjoy your home for years without invasive remodeling. A focus on quality and flexibility in design is never misplaced.