by Abbie Osborne-Wilson


Staying at home is no excuse for losing one's individuality. Although privacy is usually restricted to the bedroom and the rest of the house becomes public properties for family members, showcasing each one's style and personal touch can still be done in a very stylish manner, without clutter and overcrowding.

Every home makes a statement about the personality of those who reside there. Your home makes a statement about the nature of your family. The decor of the house is an honest reflection of the family's outlook towards life. There are various home decor techniques and accessories which may be used to express your personality or the personality of your loved one's. Encourage every member of your family to express themselves; one way to do this through decorating.

A singular theme is applicable for a bachelor or bachelorette pad. For a family house however, this mostly doesn't work because of the differences in taste. Some personalize their bedroom and apply a uniform concept for the other rooms in the house. Don't you think though that it's more fun to be diverse and unique for the entire house and not just with your personal space? If it's possible to incorporate bits and pieces of all your interests, then great! Otherwise, you can assign a room or space for every member of the household to decorate as their own. For instance, father and son can decorate the entertainment area; mother and daughter can do the kitchen makeover. If your son likes to hang out in the basement for those after school parties, then allow him the freedom to be creative in renovating that space even if it means psychedelic lightings and rock star posters. He spends much time there anyway. If a family member is an artist, use the entryway as your private museum. Hang the artworks for instant wall decorations. The important thing is to involve everyone in beautifying the home.

What about color for the walls? Repainting is not that easy especially if you have different tastes. Compromise is the key and so are neutral colors. Neutral tones blend well with other colors, so even if you use contrasting colors in your furnishings, a neutral-colored room will still look well-polished.

Color can be very difficult to agree upon when trying to design a room. Perhaps your child may believe that black or hot pink would look great on the walls, but you just can't bring yourself to agree. Instead of going to this extreme or flat out saying no and starting a riot, consider a lighter tone of the same color for the walls and accessories in the dark color they desire. This kind of contrast can look fantastic and this kind of compromise will keep the peace.

Regardless what design techniques you use, when you compromise, you win. Your family will be happier and more comfortable in their home when they can add individual style to their spaces. Make a few friendly compromises and watch your family enjoy their time at home together.




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