This is the year of change.  We changed presidents; some of us changed jobs or cities.  Why not change the décor of your home?  While many of us are facing uncertain economic times, that doesn’t mean we cannot redecorate our homes relatively inexpensively and yet create a brand new dramatic effect.  This could mean painting your walls different colors, adding new furniture or even adding a soapstone stove for the kitchen.

The recent financial crunch and falling house prices is impacting all of our lives in some way shape or form.  This can be seen in how people are decorating their homes in 2009. People are choosing to stay home more and getting more value for their home.  This means moving away from the bland to the bright.  Browns and beiges are being replaced with warming colors.  Try to find ways of injecting bold and cheerful colors like yellows and violets back into your otherwise drab rooms.

All the experts agree that emphasis this year is to make your home as comfortable and cozy as possible.  Most people don’t have the money to spend on eating out every night or even going to the movies once a weekend so they’ll be spending more time in the comforts of their home. The focal points will be gathering areas such as living rooms where everyone can spend time together and be entertained.  You’ll notice soapstone fireplaces and home entertainment centers are quite popular this year.

Furnishings are not the only changes being made.  So is the overall style of rooms.  As we mentioned earlier, rooms are now being filled with bright and warming colors.  It is fashionable to mix and match old trends alongside the new. Try adding pieces of antique furniture in the same room with less expensive furniture for a new look. In much the same manner, browse consignment shops to find pieces which can be a real steal for the price.  Place these next to genuine antiques or soapstone masonry heaters for an upbeat look.

The easy way to change up the feel of your homes rooms is to add new colors to every aspect.  This could mean painting the walls to a lighter and brighter shade.  Pick out a different color soapstone slab to replace the boring vinyl counter with a soapstone countertop.  Think about changing the window curtains or cushion covers for a slight change with a dramatic effect. Cushions and throws can  be used to re-vamp a sofa and chairs.