Give Your Home a Modern Makeover
(Family Features)--Even if your home has seen a generation or two of living, creating a contemporary new look may not require a full-scale renovation. The key to creating a more modern feel is all in the details.
Lighting
Dingy lighting and dim rooms are the antithesis of modern design. A contemporary space is airy and bright, and the lighting fixtures often help set that tone. Replace outdated fixtures with modern alternatives that boast sleek lines and finishes. Add more fixtures, including table-side task lighting and floor lamps, to brighten a room with limited natural light. Have some fun with the lighting by incorporating colored or textured globes that allow the fixtures to become focal points of contemporary design rather than functional afterthoughts.
Windows
When it comes to curb appeal, windows play an essential role in the overall aesthetic. Old, outdated windows are a tell-tale sign of an aging home, so when you're planning for a modern exterior upgrade, be sure to include the windows as part of your plan. An option like Milgard Trinsic Series vinyl windows offers an expansive view-able glass area and a narrow frame to help you embrace modern home design. Not only do they provide even sight-lines for clean, unobstructed views, they're manufactured for maximum durability and energy efficiency and require little to no maintenance.
Walls
No matter the color, a freshly painted space simply feels new. For a true contemporary style, honor simplicity in design and keep colors on the lighter side. However, don't be afraid to introduce a pop of color in the form of a bold accent wall or even wallpaper that makes a statement. A good rule of thumb: maintain a simple palette of no more than three shades to incorporate a truly minimalist, modern atmosphere.
Doors
The entry and exit points to your home are more than functional features; think of them as a canvas for making a bold design statement. For the patio, consider a sleek and contemporary door with a frame profile so narrow you'll hardly know it's there. For example, Milgard offers a contemporary Trinsic Series sliding patio door with the maximum available view-able glass area and an optional narrow handle that blends seamlessly into the frame to lend a modern flair. The doors are also ideal for low-maintenance living; the durable vinyl frames don't absorb moisture or require painting.
Hardware
Even the smallest details matter when it comes to contemporary design. You may not need to replace or update your cabinetry, but you'll most likely want to select hardware that fits a more modern motif. Avoid weathered and overly polished finishes in brass or nickel, and opt instead for selections like matte black, gold and copper, which are all well-suited for contemporary kitchens. Don't be afraid to mix and match for a bit of an eclectic look, such as different pulls for the upper and lower cabinets or a unique style for drawers.
Source: Milgard
Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2019. All rights reserved.
*There are services that give your old windows a fresh look for a reasonable amount of money. That is, if not in your budget to replace them.
How to Build a Window Seat, Easily and Affordable
How to Care for Your House Plants When Moving
