The Art of the Home Refresh: 5 Designer-Approved Ways to Re-Love Your Space

Styling

Why a Refresh Really Matters

Refreshing a room isn’t about starting over—it’s about adjusting the pieces you already have so the space feels more intentional, more functional, and more “you.”

1. Restyle Your Shelves

Don’t overthink it—just follow a few simple guidelines:
• Mix heights to create visual movement.
• Group items in threes.
• Add one plant or organic element to soften the look.
• Keep the color palette cohesive so the shelf doesn’t feel chaotic.

2. Upgrade Your Lighting

Lighting is one of the fastest ways to change the mood of a room.
Aim for three types of light:
• Ambient (overhead)
• Task (reading lamps)
• Accent (sconces or picture lights)
And use warm bulbs (2700–3000K) for a cozy glow.

3. Layer Your Textiles

Texture instantly adds warmth.
• Swap in a new throw or pillow with a different weave.
• Add a natural material—linen, wool, or boucle.
• Choose rugs that truly fit the room: they should anchor the furniture, not float in the middle.

Photo Credit: BrookeWagner Designs, via Instagram

Photo Credit: BrookeWagner Designs, via Instagram

4. Rethink Your Layout

Sometimes the biggest impact is free.
• Make sure walkways have at least 36″ of clearance.
• Use painter’s tape to test furniture size before moving everything.
• Try pulling your sofa off the wall, it creates breathing room.

Photo Credit: Two Pages Curtains

5. Show Your Windows Some Love

Window treatments finish a room.
• Hang curtains higher than the window to make ceilings feel taller.
• Choose lined panels for a more tailored, polished look.
• If using Roman shades, outside-mount them so the window feels larger.

with love,
Jennifer Ma