The Bakersfield Voice

By: Linda Bratcher

The holidays are behind us and what we have left are the memories. We’ve had so much fun — we ate and drank too much, we over-partied, we over-spent and now we are tired. I it’s time to remove all of the festive decorations and put the house back together — back to its old self.

We’re tired, but we don’t want our home to look that way! Wouldn’t you rather have a new look for the new year? Of course you would, but who has the energy or money after Christmas to make this happen? Not many of us, but there are many things you can do to create new spaces in your home without buying anything new.

This concept is called “redesign.” You’ve seen this unique decorating service on HGTV’s “Decorating Cents.” It’s all about using what you already have and making the most of what you already own.

With redesign, we truly believe it is far more important to get your furniture into the right place than to get the right furniture.

Have you ever considered trying something new with your furniture arrangement? Now is the perfect time, especially if you have moved things around to make room for your Christmas tree and other decorations. Don’t be afraid to just try something new.

Start with your largest piece of furniture and place it where it will fit well in the room and, like a puzzle, continue to add piece after piece.

Consider borrowing items from other rooms. Be a little creative.

If you own a lot of accessories, think about placing some on display and storing some away. Then you can rotate them later in the year for another look.

After you get your room back together take a look at it. What is it lacking? Could be all you need to add are accent pillows or greenery. Often just a few new accessories will add interest to the room.

Give it a try. It’s a new year, why not wake up each day to “new” surroundings?

— Linda Bratcher is an interior redesign industry specialist.