Learn to Love your home Again

Do you feel like your home isn’t quite what you’d like it to be?

Did you plan on making a few changes or updating furniture when you first moved in—but never quite got around to it?

Life gets busy, and keeping up with a home’s normal wear and tear often isn’t a priority. But when you do take the time to make changes or improve a space, the feeling is incredible—and always worth it.

The good news is that there are many simple ways to refresh your home and fall in love with it again. The changes don’t have to be big or costly to make an impact. Sometimes, something as small as updating your toss cushions or bedding can make a world of difference.

Over the past 18 years, I’ve completed hundreds of transformations (big and small!) while preparing homes for sale. And almost every homeowner says the same thing: “Why didn’t we do this sooner?”

Here are some changes you can make without spending a penny:

1. Declutter – Start small if it feels overwhelming, but I promise it feels good once you get going.

2. Rearrange your layout – Simply moving furniture around can completely change the feel of a room and even solve awkward layouts.

3. Edit your furniture – Do you really need everything in the room? I often see spaces that feel cramped because there are too many pieces. Removing furniture not only can create space but can be calming too.

4. Move your artwork – If you have multiple pieces, try switching them between rooms. Art is a feature and moving it can instantly create a fresh look.

5. Switch up your accessories – Create new vignettes on your surfaces—dining tables, coffee tables, console tables, and more—by using accessories from different rooms. We often have beautiful pieces tucked away that we’ve simply forgotten about. Take some time to play around with what you already own—you might be surprised at how fun and inspiring it can be.

If your budget allows, consider these small but impactful updates:

1. Refresh your toss cushions and throws – Introducing new, trend-forward colours can instantly elevate your living room or bedroom.

2. Update your dining table accessories – A simple table runner, candles, and a vase with fresh flowers can go a long way.

3. Add new artwork – There are great downloadable prints available on Etsy that you can have printed at a reasonable cost. Pair them with a second-hand frame or the Russo frames from Urban Barn (I use them all the time!), and you’ve got a beautiful, affordable piece.

4. Update your wall colours – If you’re up for it, painting (even just one room) can be cost-effective and make a huge impact. I personally love painting… especially when it’s white!

5. Upgrade your lighting – Sometimes all you need is a new light fixture in a room. Adding a floor or table lamp can also set the mood, add warmth, and can completely transform a space.