Like the pieces in your wardrobe that you wear from year to year and that go with everything, if your home has good basics, you can swap out accessories to update your space for minimal cost.
Start by identifying the basic pieces in each room. Then, take a good look at them. Are they well made and do you love them? (The answer to that question is often found in the question, would you purchase them again?). Chances are, if your answer is yes, they'll work for you for a long time.
Maybe you'll reupholster them, maybe you'll change the bench cushions to multiple cushions, maybe you'll slipcover them at some point. But, if they're good basic pieces, all you may have to do in lean times is add a pillow or a throw to a couch, change the bedding scheme on a great bed, or get a new centrepiece for a dining room table to give your home a fresh new feeling. Yes, these basic pieces might cost a little bit more upfront, but they'll end up saving you money in the long run.
[image: Domino Magazine]
© 2009 Apartment Therapy
I like the before look in those photos so much better.
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I'm not sure which I prefer (is "neither" an option?) though I'm a lot more likely to sit on the "before" couch with a book and a cup of tea. Or a friend and a glass of wine.
I secretly hate the whole "crisp new white slipcovers will make your home look modern" line. It only works for the first two weeks. Which is why people don't actually live with white furniture you can't sponge off.
view amanda bee's profile