Valentine's Day, that most romantic of all holidays is  next week.  And yet, here in Chicago with snow and incredibly cold temperatures, many of you may be staying inside instead of going out to celebrate.  So, I offer you seven ways to "romance" your home. 

 

1. Freshen up.  Choose a new piece of art and hang it over your mantle.  Looking at it can give you a fresh inspiration for the room and make everything feel like it's new again.

 

2. Set the mood. Lighting is one of the most neglected aspects of design.  Make sure to have adequate lighting in each room.  Add tall lamps to the buffet or sofa table, place a floor lamp in the corner, and add a tiny lamp to the countertop as an accent.  Place your chandeliers and pendant lights on dimmers so you can adjust the light.

 

3. "Reflect" on the best features.  Hang a mirror so that it reflects a great view of a favorite piece of furniture.  Add some sparkle in picture frames, or a great mirrored console table. 

 

4. Soften up.  Add touchable fabrics in pillow, throws and upholstery.  Textural fabrics engage your sense of touch, making the room a more interesting place to be.  Use flowers, plants, and fabrics to give the room a softer feeling.

 

5. Accessorize.  Much as adding a beautiful piece of jewelry can transform a plain-Jane outfit, adding a few choice accents can make any room come to life.  Don't skimp on accessories.  Collect things that catch your eye and display them to show off your personality and style.

 

6. Turn up the heat.  If you've been living with plain white walls, consider repainting in a color you're passionate about.  A great color can add warmth and make the space more attractive to you and your loved ones.

 

7. Dress up.  Just as you might dress up for a special night on the town, consider romancing your space by putting out your home's finery.  Set the table with china and linens for once.  Pick up flowers and create an arrangement for the table.  Get your wedding gifts out of boxes and use them in your decorating.

 

I hope you will enjoy this holiday with people you love, in a space that warms.