Interior Design: Amber Interiors | Photography: Tessa Neustadt

I don’t know about you, but when the new year rolls around I’m ready to get the house in order right away. As much as I love holiday decor, I’m one of those people who need to have Christmas put away no later than January 1. For me, the new year is a time to refresh the home and for me that means cleaning, organizing, and affordable interior decor updates if needed. Here are some quick and easy ways to refresh your home that will leave you feeling mentally prepared for the new year:

ORGANIZATION

Declutter with Purpose:

Evaluate each room and identify items that no longer serve a purpose or bring joy. Have your kids do this with their toys too!
Donate or sell items that are in good condition but no longer needed.

Invest in Smart Storage Solutions:

Lidded baskets are your best friend and are an easy way to keep clutter to a minimum.
Opt for furniture with hidden storage to maximize space.
Use vertical storage options like wall-mounted shelves and hooks to keep essentials within easy reach.

CLEANING

Deep Clean and Purge:

Kick off the new year with a thorough deep cleaning of your home.

Pay special attention to overlooked areas, such as baseboards, light fixtures, and behind furniture.
Throw out expired items in your pantry, bathroom and medicine cabinet.

Freshen Up Fabrics:

Consider steam cleaning carpets or upholstery for a deep clean and to remove any lingering odors.
Wash all removable throw pillow covers and Febreze the sofas.

AFFORDABLE INTERIOR DECOR UPDATES

Swap Out Decor:

Swap out the holiday themed pillows and heavier blankets for thinner throw blankets and brighter or more neutral pillows.

Add a Photo Gallery Wall (if you have a blank wall you’ve been wanting to fill):

Create a personalized gallery wall using framed photos, artwork, or mementos.
Experiment with different frame styles and sizes for an eclectic yet cohesive look.
I also love the look of uniform frames in two or three rows of parallel frames.

Greenery and Florals:

Introduce plants or fresh flowers to add life and vibrancy to your home.
If you have an empty corner, I love a tall indoor tree (faux or real) to help fill the space.

By incorporating these simple and affordable tips, you can give yourself and your home a renewed sense of order, cleanliness, and style as you step into the new year. A clean and orderly home will free your mind up to focus on more important things, like goals and/or resets for the new year.