I find home decorating fascinating. But the word trend gives me pause. Styles come and go. I hesitate to make renovations based on a fad that may shift out of vogue at any time.
As such, I’m a fan of slight, subtle changes.
I have a keen ability to see past certain elements in a home. These include clutter, paint colors, debris, minor repairs, and updates. But, I am not predisposed with the decorating gene. Thankfully I have friends who are more gifted in this way.
The decorating mind is a special creative space. It’s an art form. Combining colors, furniture, spaces, shapes, styles, textures and more is dizzying to my mind. For me it takes some significant trial and error.
If you have an entire home to decorate, by all means hire an expert. However, for minor projects, you don’t have to be an interior designer. You can try out a few of these decorating techniques on your own.
Here are five inexpensive ways to try on a home decorative style trend for size to see if it fits.
#1 Wallpaper
Wallpaper once a dated and stodgy mark of a bygone era…is back, and better than ever. New, bold creative, lively designs can lighten, brighten and invigorate a room like nothing else.
A designer friend suggested I try a peel and stick wallpaper pattern. I choose one from a company called Spoonflower. The nice thing was, I tried out a few patterns with samples. I had ordered these online before buying the full quantity that I needed.
For my project, I created an accent wall in my laundry room. I found it relatively easy to measure and apply. But remember, the more complicated the pattern, the harder it is to line up. Measure well to guarantee accuracy. And don’t leave yourself short.
#2 Paint
I love seeing the reemergence of vibrant paint colors. Welcome back to the accent walls, painted cabinets, brightly colored furniture and more flagrant displays of color. This sings to my soul.
Home self expression is back and better than ever showcased in new bold, rich colorful paint palettes. Consider color psychology, comfort or mood colors, and natural elements. Add in pops of colorful excitement. Paint is a form of self expression to embrace. It’s also a relatively inexpensive fix should you decide the color isn’t what you imagined.
I experienced this firsthand when my daughter was young and insistent that she wanted a pink room. Multiple test shades later, I accepted the fact that most pink paint is going to look like Pepto Bismol. There’s really nothing you can do besides live with it for a spell during the enchanted period of childhood.
Every year, paint manufactures showcase their color(s) of the year. For Behr, the 2026 color is Hidden Gem, “a smoky jade”. Benjamin Moore’s color is Silhouette AF 655, “a rich espresso base with elegant charcoal highlights.” Sherwin Williams offers a color collection described as “organic, elegant and authentic”. See links below. The bottom line is, color is all about making a statement.
In some ways gray was easier. With so many color options now, how do you decide which one to choose? When it comes to decor, I have always relied on a simple premise. If nature puts colors together, then they make sense. Who am I to question nature?
#3 Lighting Fixtures
An inexpensive way to update any room is with new lighting. Why wait until you are ready to sell your home to update your light fixtures? I can’t tell you how often I’ve made this mistake. Visit your local lighting or Home Improvement store. Alternatively, shop online to explore the plethora of options available now. Vintage options can also be fun for added flair!
Dramatic lighting options are so fun! Have you always dreamed of having a mini chandelier in your walk in closet? Then why not do it? New lighting is s small change that brightens a room and your spirit at the same time.
#4 Furniture
From mid century modern (MCM) with it’s sleek lines, and classic styling, to soft sculptured sofas and chairs. A blend of styles, textures and natural elements combine to create comfortable style.
Whether you prefer ultra modern or the other extreme – antiques, there’s room to explore. Focusing on one room at a time is an excellent way to begin. You can add a few pieces. See how they work with your current decor. Place a colorful couch in a neutral toned room. Or use a cozy accent chair and side table to create a reading nook.
#5 Collections & Accessories
Displaying favorite collections in unique arrangements creates a focal point in any room. Create an art wall. Add artisan touches for added flair on coffee tables and end tables.
To create warmth in a room, use hardcover vintage books or current titles. For new books, remove the paper jackets, and stack them on shelves. Intermingle them with other decorative items.
There is no need to break the bank. If budget is a concern, auction sites and thrift stores offer an opportunity for unique bargain pieces at reasonable prices. I found the pieces pictured below at Blue Ridge Hospice Thrift. This is an original oil painting by a local artist. I also found a Murano glass sculpture and 3 hard cover books by some of my favorite authors.
The freedom to explore home decor is an opportunity to liven up an existing space. It allows you transform a room that no longer showcases your personal style. What are you waiting for? Go ahead, express yourself!
Resources:
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/gallery/where-to-buy-wallpaper
https://southwesternpaint.com/pages/benjamin-moore-color-trends-2026
https://www.hgtvhomebysherwinwilliams.com/en/colors/2026-color-collection-of-the-year
https://www.behr.com/consumer/inspiration/2026-color-of-the-year/
https://www.westelm.com/shop/furniture/mid-century-furniture/
Eileen Slovak 
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