Staying in is the new going out, so better make some changes at home

What You Need to Know

1. Entertaining at home has become more popular since the economic downturn.
2. De-cluttering is a great way to make your home more attractive.
3. Fragranced candles provide a quick way to create a pleasant ambience.
4. Keep windows and blinds open to let in as much light as possible.
5. The Kitchen is the hub of the house and a good place to focus if you want to renovate.

Sick of going to the same restaurants, seeing the same people and eating the same food? “The economic downturn has led to an increase in the trend for people to entertain in, rather than socialise out”, according to new research by housebuilder Taylor Wimpey.

This doesn’t mean not seeing anyone, it’s an ideal time to get friends over to your house but the competition is on to see whose house everyone goes to. Here are 5 tips to make some easy but drastic home improvements…

What to do?

Have a spring clean out

A home filled with clutter or even too much furniture is not an inviting place to be in. People associate clutter with a cluttered mind and a cluttered life, so for an inviting home, get rid of as much as you can. Removing clutter such as old books, magazines, and things you have never used will make a noticeable difference. Or if you haven’t used something in over a year, then you don’t need it and, yes, this does include clothes.

Create an inviting entrance

First and foremost keep the entrance to your home free of clutter. Keep plants trimmed and leaves swept away from the door. Almost any porch or front entrance has enough space for a welcome mat. That's a good start for creating an inviting entrance. Make sure your house is warm and burn a candle before, so it immediately smells nice.

Add some light

Create a sense of openness and cheerfulness in your home through lighting. To improve the lighting, try opening curtains and blinds to let the sunshine in. Or perhaps install brighter light bulbs in rooms that tend to be dark. And add some lamps or candles to create an abience.

Install a new kitchen

The heart of any home is the kitchen. If you are going to spend any money on renovations, then it should be on kitchens. This is the one area where you will get the greatest enjoyment. Even with a modest budget, focusing on a few key areas, can completely upgrade your home.

Add some fresh touches

Add fresh flowers and plants throughout the house. Use fresh cut flowers and candles to create beautiful arrangements and centerpieces throughout your home. These will not just look great but add a freshness that you couldn’t otherwise achieve.