1. A FRESH COAT OF PAINT. Most people think painting should be done in the spring or summer when windows can be opened due to the toxic nature of paint products. Not true anymore. Most paints are now low-VOC or non-VOC which means little to no odour and fewer chemicals. And all brands of paint now contain a primer built in so long gone are the days of tedious priming, then painting. Simply patch the small holes with a quick-dry mud, use a light sanding block and then spot-prime with the new colour before rolling on the first coat. When your paint can is empty, simply let the paint dry and toss it and the lid into the recycling bin (it must be dry). Also, do away with disposable tray liners. Wall paint is made with latex so let the paint dry then peel it out of the tray and toss in the trash for much less waste.
2. MAKE AN OUTSIDE URN OR DECORATIVE CENTREPIECE. Urns and centrepieces are still very popular, and some florists offer workshops so you can create the exact look you want while enjoying an evening out with friends. If creating one doesn’t pique your interest, you can pre-order for pick-up with the size and specifications you need. A custom urn or centrepiece also makes a unique hostess gift and using live branches and berries means disposal in the green bin or compost when the holidays are over.
3. REPLACE YOUR MATS. The first few steps your guests take into your home serve as an introduction to your living space. This should not only give a warm
welcome but also set a relaxed tone and be clutter-free. Keeping the entrance way neat and clean during the winter months can be challenging. Try choosing a festive mat that offers a barrier between wet footwear and your hardwood or tile floors. Since mats are replaced every year, choose from a manufacturer that uses recycled or ecofriendly materials.
4. CHOOSE A THEME. This year, why not look to the environment and aim for sustainability as a theme this year. The mantra “less is more” can breathe new life into your home and create a natural, uncluttered appeal. As we all strive to reduce clutter and unnecessary packaging, a simple, elegant, and minimalist style fits the trend this year. Deep colours like burgundy, dark blue, grey, rust, brown and, the classic forest green are popular. Natural products will dominate, like raw wood, live greens, and classic metallic pieces. And don’t be afraid to reuse and repurpose old décor that may appear obsolete.
5. UPDATE YOUR LIGHTING. It might be time to upgrade those builder model light fixtures to something current and eye-catching. A chandelier in the powder room is still a popular choice, as well as softer pot lights. LED string lights are trendy and add sparkle to the subtler areas – a mantle-piece, hurricane vase, or empty bottle of wine. If you haven’t updated your lighting to LED options, now is the time. LEDs are solid-state technology, which makes them more resistant to shocks than either incandescent bulbs or CFLs, and use considerably less energy to generate light.