Happy New Year!

Happy new year, blog readers! 2011 has started off as a snowy year on Long Island, and lots of indoor time combined with the fresh-start feeling of a new year and a new decade has inspired me to make some design resolutions at home. With the guests gone and my holiday décor stored away, I’m taking inventory. A great design exercise is to walk through your house with a notebook and a camera. Looking at your spaces in photographs may call attention to areas you often overlook. Observe and note any necessary repairs, like chipped paint, but also reconsider any areas that seem tired or outdated. In many cases, these problem areas may be an easy fix that breathe new life into your space. I have planned some updates in my own well-used family room. I’m going to repaint and order a new carpet due to ordinary wear and tear. But I’ve also rethought the room's dining area.

Before, Photo by Liz Glasgow

By switching out a set of botanical prints I’ve owned for years with an incredible collection of framed intaglios I found, the corner has totally changed its identity. 

Framed Intaglios Replace Botanical Prints

The two Parsons chairs around my Lucite table also got a redo - in a great navy fabric with an Asian motif. The dining area looks completely different with the art and fabric, despite the same wall color, furniture, and light fixture. 

Newly Upholstered Parsons Chair

I am considering these light fixtures for the space from a favorite vendor. 

Swapping out your accessories can also change the look of your space without any serious work or commitment, especially after the holiday decorations have come down and you feel that your home needs something special! 

Unexpected Accessories Enliven the Space

There are many more at home projects I’ll share as the months go on. What are some of your 2011 design resolutions?