Design Ideas and Brainstorming
Sketch out a preliminary design plan of the overall vision. For example, a homey, rustic decor is usually comfortable and the no-fuss look is also aesthetically pleasing.
Gather the family to have a planning session. Find out what each family member’s priorities are. Make a chart and note everyone’s suggestions. Then discuss each aspect and get a consensus for common areas. Bedrooms and private spaces should reflect each person’s personality and point of view.
Knowing what the family wants to add to the design makes designating tasks easier and motivates everyone to become involved as they watch designs come to life.
Choosing Design Items
First, re-purpose as much as you can by repainting favorite items or delegating them to different rooms. Take down all the artwork and set aside favorites. Consider selling, donating, discarding or storing other pieces. Once that is done, make a loose list of items or take the whole family out to have a look at local thrift stores, yard sales and other stores. This is one of the most fun parts of the redecorating process.
For design ideas, consider welcoming and soothing country prints that can add a sense of peace to any room. These rustic pieces can be found just about anywhere – from thrift stores to local art fairs, and are relatively inexpensive.
Let each person choose a few pieces for both common and private rooms. This way, everyone’s taste is represented in the new home decor. It is very easy to do this for pastoral and eclectic design schemes.
Vintage and contemporary pieces with slightly weathered looks generally survive in a home with kids much easier than pristine items and precious antiques. They also meld well into the lived-in nature of a comfortable home.
Making it Happen
Rather than trying to control every aspect, allow it to happen organically. Let everyone have a say in where something goes in the home. Do a coin toss or take a consensus, if necessary, for common rooms. For bedrooms and play and recreational areas, guide those who need it, but let the kids get creative with color and item placement.
Make it a Party
Redecorating should be fun, so make some treats and have refreshments available. Offer a healthy balance of veggies, fruit and yogurt. Perhaps make finger sandwiches like peanut butter and jelly or other favorites. Set them out with plenty of water in a convenient area so everyone can stop for a break when they want to. Decide to have dinner out after the long day so everyone has something to look forward to after all of their hard work.
Getting the family in on the redecorating action not only makes it easier, but the family will appreciate the space more when they’ve a hand in designing it. Also, the memories created during the process will last a lifetime.
