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Home Styling 101: Top Tips From an Editor

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Whether you’re renovating, selling, or simply restyling your home, finding the right aesthetic for your space can seem overwhelming. The first step? Think about your home from a wellbeing perspective; what additions and changes are needed to take your space to a new level of comfort, liveability, and tranquillity? House & Garden‘s editor-in-chief, Tanya Buchanan, shares her top tips for making your house a home.

Start with a neutral scheme.

Reviving your home’s scheme (or bringing it to life) can be as simple as a fresh coat of paint. “Paint is an easy way to update a room and unlike most purchases, you can keep changing it up every few years,” says Tanya. 

Stick to neutral colors that enhance your styling options and build up textures from there, keeping within the same tonal palette.

Liveability is key.

When it comes to the kitchen, Tanya believes in prioritizing function and durability — with a splash of style, of course. Plan your aesthetic around what’s convenient for you and your family. For example, if the kitchen is a high-traffic area in your home, opt for gunmetal countertops to prevent spills and stains from marking, and embrace brass and matte black fixtures for a contemporary finish.

Mix and match.

From abstract artwork to a statement couch or rug, investing in a hero piece can enliven an entire space and is the perfect way to inject color into your home. Choose a piece that complements your chosen palette (think bold but timeless), then build up your scheme with soft furnishings — throws, rugs, and pillows — in complementary tones. These smaller pieces are an easy way to experiment with new trends and allow you to tweak the style of your home with the seasons, without having to invest a lot.

Zone your backyard.

A backyard can make or break your home. No matter how large or small, a well-designed outdoor space not only enhances your home’s liveability, but also increases its value. Think of your backyard as three separate spaces: one for lounging, one for socializing, and one for dining.

Keep styling simple.

Minimalism is on-trend right now for a reason — less is definitely more. From side tables and lighting to vases, pots, and throw pillows, consider elements that will add personality to your space without overcrowding it. Plants are an effective way to add interest to a space, and can tie your outdoor and indoor areas together via clever use of similar pots.

This article originally appeared on our sister site, Homes to Love.

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