Sunday, January 10, 2010

Creating a Beautiful Rental Home: Tip 7~



Tip #7 
Accessorize!


 It is a great way to personalize a space. I use throw pillows, artwork and mirrors. Accessories are a great way to add a pop of colour if you aren't allowed to paint the walls in your place. 
You don't have to spend a lot on accessories. Ikea (I am sounding like a broken record), Homesense (Homegoods in the US), Target (if you live in the US or are like me and live close to the border),  Loblaws/Superstore and even Walmart carry throw pillows, lamps, artwork, frames, etc.


One way I instantly personalize our space is by hanging up artwork


I know you are thinking "what about the holes?" I have never had an issue, most landlords paint after you leave OR I fill in the holes, patch them and paint over ( a good domestic diva always saves her paint!)


 Use what you have. 
I love using my children's art around the house, items in shadow boxes, photos that my husband has taken on his travels,  art purchased on various trips, family photos or even posters and maps that I have framed. My latest purchase is a poster my husband wanted, it is the graph of the Napoleonic advance into Russia in 1812, can't wait to frame it and hang it up.



Photos taken by my husband in Paris hanging in a daughter's room in old frames I spray painted black.



Artwork painted by my oldest daughter in art class in a Ribba frame from Ikea.



Nail from Jamestown, VA in a shadow box from Homesense.



I also love hanging up mirrors. They visually expand a space.












Pillows are another way to add warmth and coziness to your space.
(I love making pillows).



PIllows made by me.

Patterned pillow from Pottery Barn outlet



More pillows made by me (down inserts are from Ikea-only$6)


Come back tomorrow as I share my last tip. This week I am also going to show you what I did with this second thrift store lamp I found!