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42 Interior Design adding a couch, heirloom piece, or artwork from which the rest of the décor can flow. Refresh the Space with Some Paint A new paint job is one of the easiest ways to give a room a whole new look. Paint can be used in a variety of ways. You can use a soft yellow to instantly brighten a room, whereas a more neutral colour will work to balance out brightly coloured furniture or accessories. Or for a more dramatic flair, create an accent wall: a single boldly painted wall that can either act as a focal point or just provide a dramatic edge to the room. You might also choose to add texture to the walls with either a sponge or rag painting technique or with colour washing. Choose Your Lighting Carefully Lighting is another great way to spruce up a room. Adding more light to a room can be accomplished in one of two ways. Mirrors are a great way to increase light in a shadowy room, as they reflect and amplify both natural and artificial light. Wall or ceiling-mounted lights will also work to brighten up a room; adding a dimmer switch here always provides a nice touch. It’s also important to think in terms of mood. Standing floor lamps and table-top lamps placed in strategic spots will create lighting accents that work with your décor. Accessorise with an Area Rug What could be easier than adding a colourful area rug to perk up a drab space? This is a very simple interior room design tip. Rugs are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colours that will work in practically any design scheme. Adding one to the room will instantly energise your décor. There are so many quick and easy ways to rejuvenate the interior room design in your home. By adding a new touch here and there, you can create an updated décor that will give your home a whole new look. “A new paint job is one of the easiest ways to give a room a whole new look.” Home & Build Winter 2016 Winter 2016.indd 42 08/01/2016 4:30 p.m.