The Roanoker - May/June 2019 - 116

5. Add in plants
Color and texture make a room more
interesting, and plants have both. While
faux plants can work well in low light or
on a high shelf, the real thing always looks
better, says Mangus. There are many plant
species that are low maintenance and
can be good starter plants. Succulents, for
example, do well in bright, indirect sunlight
with infrequent watering, so don't need a
lot of care. Herbs are great for cooks, and
do best in bright sunlight. Have a kitchen
window with a southern exposure? A row
of herbs like sage, thyme and mint on the
windowsill are a nice addition and provide
a soft counterpoint to the hard surfaces and
right angles in the space. Tall plants, like
the fiddle leaf fig, elephant's ear and rubber
tree are great in corners with adequate
sunlight, and make a big impact for a small
investment. Dress up these big plants in a
basket from a home goods store, and you've
got an attractive and affordable container.
DO IT NOW: Go to a nursery
and talk with an expert about
what plants would work in your
home. Buy a starter plant and
give your green thumb a try.

6. Get rid of what
doesn't work
You bump into that side table all the time,
because it doesn't fit. You bought it for the
old house and couldn't part with it. We
hereby give you permission to sell it. "Don't
be afraid to get rid of things...they make way
for things you'll love," Mangus reminds.
Furniture you bought or inherited doesn't
always work, and it becomes bossy in the
room-dictating that everything else work
around it. If the piece is sentimental, could
a close friend or family member use it? If
it's not a family favorite, consider one of the
many options for selling it, like Craigslist or
a furniture consignment store. The cash you
make can go towards purchasing something
that fits your needs. Donation is always an
option, and can be done immediately.
DO IT NOW: What's the first
piece of furniture you think
of that doesn't work in your
house? Make a plan to get rid of
it in the next two weeks.
116

MAY/JUNE 2019

7. Invest in new throw pillows
New pillows can freshen up a couch and a room, breathing new
life into your old sofa. Here's a foolproof way to mix pattern-grab
a solid pillow, a small scale geometric one and a large print in
a coordinating palette of colors, says Mangus. It's the designer
secret to a mix and match that looks intentional. "Throw pillows
are a huge part of changing a look," echoes Durham, who says
that when a client comes to her looking to make a big impact on
a small budget, she opts for paint, lighting and pillows to create
a vibe. Budget friendly options can be found at places like TJ
Maxx and Homegoods, suggests Durham, or pillows can be made
inexpensively with discount fabric by an upholsterer. One thing
you shouldn't skimp on are quality down pillow inserts, so they
can be fluffed back to life after the dog or a toddler take a nap
on them. Add in a comfortable throw or two-a chunky knit or
blanket with fringe add whimsy to your sofa.
DO IT NOW: Toss out pillows that have seen better
days-a bare couch will prompt you to get new ones.
TheRoanoker.com
http://www.TheRoanoker.com
The Roanoker - May/June 2019

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Roanoker - May/June 2019
