How often should you redecorate your home?

How often you should redecorate your home depends on a few factors, including your personal style, the condition of your home, your lifestyle, and budget. However, there are general guidelines that can help you decide when it’s time for a refresh:

1. Every 5 to 7 Years for Major Redecoration

• Furniture and large elements (such as wall colors, flooring, or built-in features) tend to age after about 5-7 years. This is the typical time span for major redecorations or updates to the main components of your home.
• Redecorating every 5 to 7 years can help you keep your home feeling fresh, especially if you've noticed the style feels outdated or the furniture is worn out.

Signs it’s time for a major redecorating:

• Furniture or fixtures are worn out or damaged.
• Wall colors feel dated or no longer reflect your personality.
• You’re feeling bored with the existing layout or design.
• Your lifestyle or needs have changed, and the current space no longer functions well.

2. Every 1 to 3 Years for Minor Updates

• If you don’t want to completely redo your entire space, you can refresh your home with minor updates every 1-3 years. This involves switching up smaller details like throw pillows, rugs, artwork, lighting, and accessories.
• Small changes can make a big difference and give your space a new feel without a full renovation.

Minor updates might include:

• Changing throw pillows or curtains to reflect the current season.
• Updating artwork, photos, or other wall decorations.
• Reorganizing or rearranging furniture for a fresh look.
• Introducing new colors or materials (e.g., a new rug or updated lampshades).

3. Annually for Seasonal Updates

• If you're someone who loves to change things up regularly, updating your home once a year to reflect the seasons or just your evolving tastes is a great idea. You might focus on adding seasonal colors or elements (like spring flowers or cozy fall textures) to make the home feel connected to the time of year.
• This can be as simple as swapping out pillows, blankets, or introducing a new plant or vase.

Examples of annual updates:

• Changing bedding and accessories (like curtains and cushions) to reflect seasonal changes.
• Rotating or swapping out artwork for something new.
• Adding new houseplants to bring in a fresh natural element.

4. When You Need to Reflect Life Changes

• Major life events or changes (such as a new job, having a baby, moving in with a partner, or a lifestyle change) may prompt the need to redecorate more frequently. You may find that you want to rearrange or update your home to better fit your new needs or reflect your evolving lifestyle.
• For example, after a move, it’s common to redecorate your space to make it feel more like your own. Similarly, if your family dynamic changes (kids move out, a baby arrives, etc.), you may want to adapt the design to suit your new needs.

Signs you need to redecorate due to life changes:

• New furniture is needed to accommodate additional family members.
• The layout no longer works for your lifestyle (e.g., home office setup, changing family needs).
• You’re downsizing or upgrading, which may require a different style or design approach.

5. Every 10+ Years for Major Overhaul

• If your space is feeling completely outdated or you’re bored with the entire look, it might be time for a complete overhaul. This could be a big project such as changing flooring, knocking down walls, or changing major aspects of the room, like kitchen or bathroom renovations.
• While this kind of work is less frequent, it’s ideal for homeowners who are looking for a new start or are ready to completely update their space.

How to Keep It Fresh Without Full Redecoration:

• Rearrange furniture: Switching up the layout can create a fresh, new feel without spending money.
• Update textiles: Add new throw pillows, blankets, or curtains to update the room’s look.
• Add greenery: Incorporate more plants or swap existing ones for a quick freshen-up.
• Paint or wallpaper an accent wall: Changing the color of one wall can make a significant impact without requiring an entire redecoration.

In Summary:

• Full redecoration (major updates, furniture, and walls): Every 5-7 years.
• Minor updates (textiles, accessories, layout): Every 1-3 years.
• Seasonal refreshes (small details like throw pillows or flowers): Annually.
• Life changes (major shifts in furniture or space use): As needed.

Ultimately, how often you redecorate depends on your personal preference, lifestyle, and the amount of change you're comfortable with. Regular updates and small tweaks can keep your home feeling fresh and welcoming without the need for large, costly projects.