Designing With Carol: New year, new beginnings

Abby McIntyre

Happy New Year, friend!

Change is in the air! It’s the time of year that most people pledge to dramatically change their life style in some way, shape, or form. In nearly every study or poll taken asking participants about New Year’s resolutions, the top three most common goals are:

1. eat healthier

2. exercise more

3. focus on self-care

Come January 1st, people will be swearing off junk food and flocking to the gym to stay committed to their resolution to lead a healthier lifestyle. What about that third goal though? Self-care. Self-care encompasses our mental, emotional, and physical health. In an article published by PsychCentral, practicing good self-care can improve mood, relationships, and reduce one’s anxiety. One’s surrounding environment can greatly impact one’s mood and relationships. So, if you’re looking to improve your mental and physical health this new year, it might be worth taking a quick glance around your home to see the hidden potential that awaits you. We’ve compiled a list of three simple design solutions to help you refresh after the holidays!

One of the simplest ways to refresh your home is to rearrange your furniture pieces. Having the same set up over time can be monotonous. If you’re looking to start with small changes, start playing with your furniture pieces. There are no written laws that say the sofa must go here, the armchair must stay in the corner, and the paintings on the wall must hang in the same spot year in and year out. This year look at the layout of your furniture with a renewed perspective and have fun with it!

The home is a place of safety and comfort for many. Everyone deserves the opportunity to recharge in comfort at the end of a long day. Creating a space in your home to do just that can have a wonderful impact on your mental health. For instance, that awkward corner of your master bedroom can be transformed in to an oasis for you to escape with a cup of coffee and a good book. Adding a cozy armchair in combination with a small end table will do just the trick. With a new pair of draperies, the bay window overlooking the lawn can be revitalized and a new space to relax and destress can be created.

Lastly, decluttering your home can have remarkable mental health benefits! It’s common to collect small trinkets and knick-knacks over time and find places for them throughout your home. However, this can feel suffocating after a while. If you need a breath of fresh air this year, go through your home and focus on keeping functional items only. Not only will this open up your home, but it will give you a fresh start to the new year.

Here at Carol’s Custom Draperies let us help you renew your home to welcome the new year! Come see us at our showroom at 535 S. Locust St., Monday-Friday from 10:00-4:30 or call us at 940-565-8337 to set up your design appointment! Happy designing, friend!