26 Aug 2010 Freshen up a bedroom

Change bed linens/curtains – Linen exchange (splurge) When thinking about changing out your bed linens, keep in mind that a total transformation can be pricy. Maximize your budget by purchasing a neutral bedcovering. This allows you to mix in colors and textures through sheets and accent pillows. If you change your mind on a color in the future, all you have to do is switch out a few pieces of linen for a new look.
Tip: To minimize cost of bed linens, try purchasing a duvet cover as opposed to a new comforter.

Change lamp/shade – Lighten up Updating your lamps is an easy way to spruce up your bedroom. Change out your dated lamp or shade for a newer, modern shape. Can’t afford to buy a whole new lamp? Try painting your lamp to match your new color scheme.
Tip: A great way to work with vaulted ceilings in a bedroom is to use tall floor lamps as your bedside lamps. The added height will appear to bring the ceiling down and create a cozier atmosphere.

Change accessories – Put on the glitz Some of the most fun when updating your bedroom can be in the selection of accessories. Pick out fun items of different sizes and colors. Remember to group things in odd numbers and always edit yourself. Pick up on colors in your linens or introduce a new color through pottery, candleholders and clocks.
Tip: Try shopping thrift stores for frugal finds.

De-clutter – Find order in the chaos Go through your room and de-clutter your space.
Tip: Use coordinated containers for storing items such as family photos, keepsakes, magazines or important papers. This will help to streamline the new space and draw attention to the big features of your room instead of pulling the eye toward scattered papers.  

Paint – Show your true colors Painting a bedroom can be a daunting task when trying to decide exactly which colors to use. Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on how you look at it), the options are endless. If you want to use a color but are a little skittish about the commitment, try painting one accent wall a color from your bedroom scheme. Paint the rest of the walls a coordinating neutral.
Tip: For the biggest impact, paint the wall behind your headboard the accent color.

Artwork/change frames – Express yourself Artwork is frequently overlooked when updating spaces. Artwork is like the icing on a cake – it finishes off the look of any room. If you are particularly attached to a piece of art, but it doesn’t quite go with the room, try updating the frame. Many times a simple black frame and white mat will do wonders.
Tip: Don’t have any art to put up? Go through some of your favorite snapshots. Blow them up in black and white or sepia for instant art that adds a personal touch to your new bedroom.