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Updating your soft furnishings is a cheap and easy way to give your home a facelift. Consider swapping out old curtains, throw pillows, and rugs for something fresher and bolder, as this will inject some vitality into your living spaces.
There’s an inner artist inside everyone, no matter your skill set. In today’s world of technology, you can find tutorials and inspo for almost any facet of interior design, so get personal with some DIY crafts and test your hand at repurposing old furniture. From hand-painted accent walls to DIY splashbacks, the possibilities for homemade magic are endless.
One person’s trash is another person’s treasure, so try not to buy anything brand new if you don’t have to. Explore vintage or charity shops, or utilise online apps to discover some unique, budget-friendly gems. A quirky lampshade or a vintage coffee table can add a touch of character to your home, but if you prefer modern and trendy items, check online for second-hand listings so that you don’t have to splash out on the full retail price.
Nature costs nothing, but the payoff of decorating with low-maintenance houseplants is unmatched. Add a touch of nature to your home in every empty corner for a pop of colour and clarity. Houseplants don’t just improve air quality; they also serve as living décor with mood-boosting properties that create a soothing atmosphere.
The overall ambience of your home can be controlled with a few simple lighting adjustments. Check if any of your fixtures are outdated and swap for eco-friendly alternatives that align better with your style. Energy-efficient LED bulbs will save you money on utility bills while also enabling you to diversify your lighting scheme with plenty of options to choose from.
Smart home features have become much more accessible and affordable over the past few years, and now they are an easy way to enhance your home’s convenience and energy efficiency. Smart thermostats, plugs, and bulbs can be easily integrated, helping you save on utility bills and give your home a subtle touch of modernity.
Make a statement without having to splash out on a full paint job. You can opt for removable wallpaper or decals to create interesting patterns and focal points. The best part is the lack of permanence, as you can update and experiment with different styles over time, allowing a dynamic feel in your living space.
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If you have enough space for a shuffle round, switching up your furniture layout could be a great way to keep things cosy. For example, if your radiator is being blocked by furniture, your room won’t heat up very evenly, so a little manoeuvring might go a long way. Additionally, if your seating area is close to the window, consider reworking your furniture plan so that you aren’t close to a draught while you’re trying to snuggle up in front of the TV.
Your boiler works hard over the wintertime, but those stagnant months in summer could have triggered an issue with your central heating. Lack of use could cause the pump or valve to seize up, so it’s important to get it checked as we head into winter. A certified technician can make sure your heating system is in good condition, identify any potential issues, and perform any necessary maintenance. This will ensure that your system is running efficiently throughout the season while also extending its lifespan – saving you more money in the long run.
When the cold seeps in, it’s tempting to switch on your heating and crank it right up. However, the best way to heat your home efficiently and effectively is to keep your heating on a constant low setting, rather than switching it on and off for short bursts of heat. It’s important to get to grips with your thermostat and its timer settings if you want to get the most for your money.
Most homes lose heat through tiny cracks around the doors and windows and gaps in the floor. Draught-proofing is an affordable remedy which could even save you money in the long run and immediately make your home more comfortable. Use self-adhesive draught-excluder strips around the edges of your windows, hang heavy curtains that extend below the windowsills, and invest in some fluffy draught excluders for your doors.
If you have an unused fireplace, you might notice an unshakable draught. This is because a huge amount of heat can escape through your chimney. You can block your unused chimney with a chimney balloon or even an old pillow if it’s causing a chill. However, make sure to do your research first and proceed with caution, as an inadequately blocked chimney can result in your home overheating.
It’s important to check your radiators regularly throughout the winter months while they’re being used more frequently. If you feel any cold spots on your radiators, it might be time to bleed them as this indicates that there is trapped air inside. Pockets of air prevent warm water from circulating in your radiators, and this means you’ll end up using more energy than necessary when trying to heat up the house.
