Gentlemen, when deciding to spruce up or re-decorate don’t do it in haste. Seriously think about how you want your pad to look. Ask yourself “What don’t I like about my place now?”, “Whose home decor do I really like”, and “What type of ambiance do I want my place to have?” After those three questions you should have a general idea of what you like and don’t like. If you’re sprucing up or doing minor re-decorations then your room already has a look or theme of some sort… you should build upon this. If you’re current theme or room look is very unique and different, you may need to email me so I can help you out one on one, otherwise follow these tips.

This is usually the main part of the house because it’s the first thing people see. First off, it should be neat and clean, and less is ALWAYS more especially when it comes to a man’s house. SO if you have alot of stuff in your living room- narrow it down to the main pieces (couch, coffee table, side table, lamps). Spruce your living room up by adding artwork- you’d be surprised how much of a difference a couple large art pieces can make. Depending on your current living room theme or look- you may want to opt for a painting or a print. Find an accent color (the second main color) that you want to use in you room- blue, orange, or whatever and make sure that your painting or print has that color in it.

At this point you should have a clearer vision of what you want your room to become. If you are lost, then take a look at your print or painting and build your new theme/look around the art. Depending on the current color of your walls I suggest painting one wall a new color. For example if all your walls are white- paint one royal blue, black, or burgundy- whatever color matches best. Painting your wall will make it seem like you totally re-did the house, it’s called the accent wall by the way. Now, we need to just add some finishing touches, by adding a few accent pillows, maybe a new rug- and you’re done. It doesn’t take too much to spruce up the living room: color on one wall, 2 new paintings or prints (they should be framed), pillows, and maybe a few accessories… new shag rug and/or lamp. Oh and let me not forget- a flat screen tv is a must these days… and most stores have good deals on them- so please upgrade if possible.

The bedroom is the place that most of you are concerned about- for obvious reasons. But I must stress how important it is for the living room (den) to look nice- that’s the first impression you’ll give off to visitors. So please make sure it’s right! Okay, back to the bedroom…

When re-decorating the bedroom, start with the bed spread and sheet colors. You probably already have a color or pattern in mind, if not let’s use the same method we used with the living room- find a painting or print you want to use. From your art, choose a color and base everything around that. In the bedroom decorating is alot easier if you opt for a modern look- it’ll make your place look instantly chic. And you’ll really give off the impression that you have true style and swagger. (The modern look is just an easy way to gain style for those who need help, but if you have style already feel free to go for whatever look you want). Always use soothing colors in the bedroom- cool hues such as blues, purples, blacks, greens. You can use warm colors like- red, yellow, or orange, but they should be an accent color- not a main color. Cool colors make you and your guest feel more relaxed and besides, it’s nice to wake up to a beautiful “cool-toned” room with the sun shining in.

The two main colors are black and white
orange, zebra, and silver are accents

Places to shop:
- Online stores: Ex: overstock.com
- Crate & Barrel, IKEA, Bed Bath & Beyond.
- Vintage/thrift stores often have unique one of a kind pieces and they have the BEST deals
- T.J Maxx, Marshall’s, Ross
- Clothing stores often sell unique furniture, like Urban Outfitters.
- Check for sales in your local papers, you can find deals at stores like Rooms To Go, American Signature Furniture, Macy’s.
- Don’t be afraid to stop at a yard sell.