New Year, New Home: 3 Simple Ways to Make Your Home Feel Brand New
By Kathryn York
Photos by Tatted Cat Photography By Meredith Joi
Well, 2021 has arrived, and it might just be among the most welcomed new years of all time. After the ups, downs, uncertainties, and anticipations of 2020, it’s safe to say that we can all use a fresh start, right? While the start of a new year traditionally prompts many individuals to set new goals or resolutions for the next year ahead, these goals often center around careers, dreams, or even travel. However, after spending a lot more time at home during the past year, maybe this is the year to give your living quarters some fresh attention.
So, what does that look like? Well, to ease the burden of goal setting for you, here are three simple new year’s resolutions to implement at home. If you’ve been looking for the gentle nudge to finally make some adjustments around the house, these tips will set you on your way to creating a home aesthetic you and your future guests will truly enjoy.
Resolution #1: Be Open to a Few Simple Updates
Sure, you’ve curated an atmosphere in your home that’s familiar. Whether it’s decorative accessories that you’ve had for years, furniture that was passed down through generations, or kitchen gadgets that still get the job done, we can all admit that an occasional update (or better yet, upgrade) is always good.
First, keep in mind that updating your space doesn’t always involve a large budget. In fact, many home updates can actually be done by rearranging or reworking items you already have. Of course, it never hurts to add a few new elements to the mix to really make a statement. If you’re wondering a good way to start, consider a fresh coat of paint on your walls to lighten up your room and cover up the everyday wears and tears of life. If your furniture or window treatments are darker or bolder in tone, choose a more neutral color palette for your walls. On the contrary, if your furniture elements are neutral, don’t be afraid to play with color.
Throughout your house, consider updating your photos and frames. A careful balance of past and present memories is good for the soul, reminding us all of what’s most important in life—people and relationships. Also, don’t neglect your shelves. Whether it’s styling your shelves with a mixture of elements that include books, pottery, artwork, or photography, some intentional shelf arrangement efforts can make a living space feel brand new.
Finally, among the simplest of ways to freshen up a space and make it feel inviting is to add live plants and natural textures. Not only will your space come truly “alive” by adding some green foliage, but you can insert a dash of color with baskets, planters, and textiles like rugs and throw pillows.
Resolution #2: Prepare the Way for Guests
Having guests in your home can be intimidating—especially if you’re rushing to get the house ready or stressing over what to cook. But, while most invitations to welcome friends and family into your home come with an assumption that your time together will occur over a sit-down meal, that’s not necessarily your only option anymore.
If you’re not the best cook (no shame, ladies), don’t put the pressure of preparing a formal meal on your shoulders. If done well, there is beauty in simplicity. Instead of gathering recipes from cookbooks or scurrying around for the “family meal” take-out menus, make an effort in 2021 to have two or three “go-to” options for hearty or savory charcuterie boards that will be pleasing to all guests and easy on you. There are numerous books and resource guides to help you build a beautiful and balanced board. The best part is, you don’t have to follow a recipe. Rather, you can get ideas from photos within the books or build an exact replica of one pictured. Also remember that once the food starts to disappear, you want a beautiful board as a visually pleasing base for guests to see.
Finally, one of the key elements of entertaining is preparation. You don’t want to run out of food, but rather, you want to have a little bit left over. Make sure coffee is brewing (always have a decaf option when entertaining in the evening hours), wine bottles are open, and utensils and napkins are out and easily accessible. You don’t want people digging through your kitchen drawers in search of a fork or a wine opener. All in all, remember that being prepared means anticipating what your guests might need.
Resolution #3: Tidy Up and Get Organized
There’s a reason that home improvement shows like Netflix’s Tidying Up with Marie Kondo have become so popular in recent years. People desire organization, but they often don’t know where to begin or fear that they can’t part with certain items that would lend to an organized space. With busy work schedules, family demands, and all the many things that life can toss our way, our homes can easily become cluttered without us even realizing it.
If you’re ready to make 2021 the year to finally clear the clutter, resolve to start from the inside out. Tackle closets and drawers first. Whether it’s purging clothing items that you haven’t touched in years or tossing expired canned or boxed food items, organization can’t happen until you’ve made some essential room for it. For items that are often just laying around the house like blankets, books, and toys, consider adding baskets, bins, or even trunks or ottomans that not only function as storage but also offer a pleasing aesthetic.
Finally, keep in mind that the old adage, “out of sight, out of mind” doesn’t have to apply in kitchens and bathrooms. This one is often hardest for the guys and kids. But, keeping your countertops clear until you’re ready to use them is one of the most effective paths toward organizational accountability. In the bathroom, invest in under-cabinet totes for toiletries to be put away after use. In the kitchen, remember that less is more on your countertops. You can combine visual appeal and practicality on your counter space through stylish small appliances like SMEG brand coffee makers or toasters. All in all, don’t underestimate how a few small steps at tidying up your space can go a long way toward a less cluttered life.
KATHRYN YORK is the owner and curator of Smith & York Company, a modern home boutique located on the square in downtown Columbia, Tennessee. Open seven days a week, Smith & York Co. offers a diverse selection of home goods, including tabletop accessories, barware, lighting, textiles, planters, and gift items. Learn more by visiting smithandyork.co.