Hello my decorating divas! I know you are always looking for ways to update and refresh your spaces but are often short on time or perhaps you’re overwhelmed with where to even begin. Many of us are looking for instant results too (apparently patience is a virtue and many of us are not very virtuous!). This week I am sharing with you the number 1 decor update that you can complete this weekend, the one that is the first step in all decor update and room refreshes you will undertake. And what is that silver bullet? DECLUTTER!

Many of us have ‘stuff’ .... waaay too much stuff and it is cluttering our homes and our lives. Closets are filled to capacity, basements are full of ‘treasures’ that we might need some day and garages can be so full that our vehicles are parked outside. But what about your rooms? Are they storage spaces too with crowded, cluttered surfaces making them non-functional? Are they places you can retreat to in order to relax or entertain family and friends? Decluttering can result in an instant refresh before you even consider fresh paint, new draperies and area rug, throw pillows or lamps.

Cluttered Closet Books - Julia Joppien.jpg

Photo Credits: Photo 1 - Onur Bahcivancilar, Photo 2 - Todd Kent, Photo 3 - Jason Leung, Photo 4 - Julia Joppien

You want your home to flow and be as open as possible both visually and physically so it feels calm and spacious and your rooms to be peaceful places you can relax in. The following tips will help you get started on the path to decluttering.

Remove unnecessary furniture; rooms that are crowded with furniture feel chaotic and are overwhelming. Are there pieces that can be used elsewhere in your home? If not, consider donating to a charity organization (some will pick up bigger items) or posting on online buy and sell or even give away sites.
Remove and discard books, papers and magazines. Some charity shops will accept books but also consider seniors facilities, day care centres may take magazines and recycle the newspapers (and magazines too if you can’t find a place to donate them).
Clear counters, tables and other surfaces that hold piles and collections
You may enjoy your collectibles but select a few items to display, not the entire collection! Take the less is more approach and ensure displays have an odd number of items (3 or 5 is ideal). Alternatively, if you no longer like a collection or are tired of it, sell or donate it.
Clean. As you are clearing away the clutter, a good deep clean will go a long way to making your space appear fresh.
Feet up and relax. Start enjoying the calm, relaxed space and perhaps even planning the next steps in your update!