The Secret Sauce: Small Design Changes
That Make a Big Impact
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Hello, Friends! Inez here. When it comes to refreshing, styling, or accessorizing your home, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by endless combinations, color palettes, and products. But here’s a little secret: sometimes it’s the small changes that pack the biggest punch. The same way a sprinkle of salt or a dash of spice can transform a dish, these quick design tweaks can easily elevate your space. So, if you’re itching for a home refresh going into the new year, but don’t want to overhaul your life (or your wallet), this Diary entry could be your secret sauce.
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Switch Up Your Throw Pillows
Throw pillows are like the personality of your living room—they’re small but mighty. Mix and match textures like velvet, linen, and boucle to create variation and LAYERS. Layers are so important in design.
Back in my visual merchandising days, we had a rule for styling sofas with throw pillows: one textured pillow, one solid tone, and one pattern. Bonus points for adding a quirky shape, like a round or geometric pillow, to shake things up.
Pictured:McGee & Co Barley Pillow
Lighting, Lighting, Lighting
Lighting can turn your space from “office waiting room” to “chic abode” in a snap. Let's stop turning on those builder-grade can lights in the ceiling that are completely washing out the room. Add table lamps, floor lamps, and wall sconces to your space! If you must use the overhead can lights, swap your plain overhead bulbs for warm, dimmable options. Also, don’t underestimate LED strips to bring in a nice, soft glow! Install them under kitchen cabinets, inside wardrobe closets, or in built-ins to instantly add a layer of warmth and sophistication.
Pictured:Pilar Floor Lamp from ARTICLE
Add Organic Life
A pop of greenery can breathe life into any room. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a faux-plant enthusiast (no judgment here), adding greenery is a SURE way to freshen up your space. Try a statement fiddle-leaf fig, or a gorgeous olive tree in an oversized clay pot. Just make sure to keep them alive—or at least move the crispy leaves to the back where no one can see them.
Pictured: Design by Colin King
Rearrange Your Furniture
Sometimes, the best things in life really are free. Simply rearranging your furniture can breathe new life into a room and completely shift its energy. Try angling your sofa differently, swapping chairs from one space to another, or even pulling furniture away from the walls for a fresh perspective. When I was younger, summer breaks were my time to shine—I had full reign to rearrange my room however I wanted, and let me tell you, those moments are some of my fondest memories. Who knew a little creativity could bring so much joy?
Declutter
Sometimes, you just need less visual "busy-ness" going on in your home. Less is more. Decluttering might not sound like it would carry design impact, but it’s one of the most underestimated ways to transform your space. Your home should be an inviting sanctuary, not a drop zone for a mountain of mail, toys, or knick-knacks. Take a look at your coffee table, bookshelves, or countertops. What really needs to stay? Everything else can find its way to a drawer, cabinet, or donation pile. Trust me, your brain will thank you.
PIictured: Design by YOND Interiors
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Tickle All of the Senses - Including Scent
Okay, technically not a visual change, but hear me out: scent sets the mood of your space. Try introducing a signature scent with candles, diffusers, or wall plug-ins. Your home will not only look good but smell like a million bucks. One of the greatest compliments is someone walking into my home and saying "It smells soooo good in here". It's like we've fabricated a signature, nostalgic, scent and environment, and that makes my heart happy.
This Maison Louis Marie candle is one of the yummiest scents I've ever come across - found it in a shop in Montreal! Take my word for it. Link below image.
Small changes don’t just save time and money—they also keep your space feeling dynamic and evolving. And the best part? You can mix and match these ideas to fit your personal style and mood. Whether you’re going for cozy chic or modern loft, there’s a simple tweak out there with your name on it. So, which of these ideas are you going to try first? And remember, it’s okay to experiment—after all, it’s your home. It should be a reflection of the things you love.
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-XOXO, Inez Meadows