As winter approaches, we have already had the first snow fall, and we hurtle yet again towards another year passed.
Which means your decor is another year older and your home might just be ready for a little TLC.
But rather than going the whole way with an extension or a renovation project, you might want to focus on some simple improvements for a pleasing aesthetic, some natural décor and money-saving ideas.
The Natural Look
Having been stuck indoors throughout 2020 and a chunk of 2021, it’s no wonder that more of us yearned for some nature. People have chosen to decorate with natural tones and materials. Earthy colours are currently trending, and wood is the atria of choice. If you’re worried about sustainability issues, you can instal vinyl that looks just as good as the real thing.
Soft and Plushy
Although inviting wood and natural materials into the home makes for a pleasing aesthetic and a feeling of a more natural environment, we still want a cosy home. So if you’re thinking of decorating before the new year, you probably want to cosy up your home as winter approaches.
Wood is natural and warm, yet it is a solid material. Adding soft and plush fabrics can easily soften the overall aesthetic and make look more inviting. It might also save you from switching the central heating on and so potentially saving some money by cuddling under some knitted blankets and throws while you binge-watch your fave show.
Making Use Of
A nifty and inexpensive method of improving your home is by making use of existing items. This is known as upcycling, not to be confused with recycling. Where recycling essentially destroys an object so its materials can be used, upcycling will repurpose an object for a different use.
For example, you might have seen old candle jars used as make up brush holders, or old pallets as a tiered herb garden in your garden. With some imagination, there is no limit as to what can be upcycled.
Sun and Wind
They say death and taxes are the only certainties in life. Yet, there is one more to be added. Increased energy prices. The UK is currently in the middle of an energy crisis as suppliers fail to source gas while adhering to national price capping. So, prices will increase.
However, you can harness the power of the sun and the wind by installing solar panels and even wind turbines. Neither are cheap. But you can apply for grants and assistance for installation provided you own your home. Some companies will also install devices for free.
Energy Efficiency
In addition to making the most of natural resources for your energy supply, you should ensure that your home is as efficient as possible. One of the most simple yet effective things you can do is check for draughts and plug them up accordingly. You can also replace insulation and seal window cracks as 70% of heat is lost through these two alone.
In addition, it is helpful to replace inefficient appliances such as your fridge, washing machine and TV. Many of these use more electricity than they need to and are rated A to F. Try to buy A-rated appliances, and you will see a massive difference in your overall power consumption.
We hope these easy home improvement tips help.
