Before and After

A few inspiring before and afters.  It's amazing what a coat of paint and some window coverings (or lack thereof) can do to a space.

via Dwellers without Decorators

Before and After

A lovely before and after that reminds me that less is ALWAYS more.
images via Design*Sponge

Before and After

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I am pretty much obsessed with painting the inside of bookcases.  Those little swatches of paint, allow you to add an additional pop of color and give you the courage to go bold with a color without worrying about overpowering the room.  Not to mention, I love the idea of layering items on top of bookcases.  This room layers two framed, simple sketches, but I think round mirrors would work just as well.  Bookcases are the perfect solution to a big, blank wall.

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Obviously this one is a little more drastic...but amazing nonetheless.  So many basements go unused and unfinished.  If I had a basement, I would definitely want it to be completed and furnished.  It would be the perfect little den for scorchers like today!

images

Before and After

I think before and after shots are much more inspiring than looking through image upon image of perfectly styled living spaces.  I love seeing "before" shots, and thinking...my dwelling looks like that... and I hate it.  Well, you will hate no more after looking at these wonderful before and after shots of Viv's laundry room, basement studio, and upstairs office. 

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Subtle changes are the key to this transformation.  By simply changing the hardware on the cupboards from dark to light, the doors seem more refined and sleek.  Also notable upgrades are the wallpaper in the bath, and the wicker storage units.

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Although no one will be able to admire the lovely work you do to fix up the inside of a closet, you will no longer get the shivers every time you open it.  Adding wallpaper to the back, and painting the unit white transforms a scary looking closet into something you can't wait to open.

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Too many changes to note.  You have to admit this looks 1,000x better.

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I am coveting black walls right now.  When paired with a light infused room, the look is stunning.

(images)

Before and After

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I found these before and after shots on Dwellers Without Decorators, one of my favorite design blogs, and thought the transformation was remarkable.

After

It's amazing how some framed pieces of art and a light fixture complete the space and turn dull into interesting.  The light fixture in this image can be found here, but I also like these more affordable options that can be found at IKEA.

RUTBO Pendant Lamp $39.99

IKEA PS MASKROS $89.99

FILLSTA Pendant Lamp $49.99

Before and After

I found these amazing before and after shots on Design*Sponge yesterday and had to share.  The above image is the "before" shot.  Not too bad though, right?  I mean it's a little boring, but nothing hideous.  The mirror behind the sofa creates the illusion of space and the floors are beautiful.  But wait until you see the after...

It looks like a whole new apartment!!!  I love the color palette, especially the lime green behind the shelves in the built-in (which by the way, is a super inexpensive way to liven up the space).  If you don't have the budget to get all new decor, getting a rug, and replacing window furnishings is a great place to start.  See how the curtains add a level of sophistication?  When I liven up a space with hints of color, instead of one big statement piece (like the lime green sofa), I typically use tints and shades of the same color.  A hint of green, a hint of orange, and a hint of yellow with neutral sofas and chairs does not have the same effect as one color accent (in varying shades to create visual interest) accompanying dominating neutrals.  Here are some additional before and after shots from the same update.

Some of my favorite tips to keep in mind when decorating (or re-decorating) a space, get the full list here.

1.  The best interiors are a harmonious marriage between architecture and interior design so spend time in an empty apartment or house before you decorate it.

2. The most successful rooms defy categorization. They're allergic to design templates because they reflect their owner's individuality and life experiences.

3.  Rooms that stay relentlessly true to one particular style or period (even, dare I say it, mid-20th century modern!) are predictable.

4. A coat or two of paint is the least expensive and quickest way to transform an interior.

5. The best rooms never take themselves too seriously

Happy Friday!