The Itch for Redesign

So many times we are faced with a desire for something different. We say we are bored... we say we need a change of scenery... something feels old, or tired, and we want to feel refreshed... renewed... And, so it is with design.



I've been told that the fashion world recycles trends in design on a 7 year cycle. Thankfully, the home design cycle is a little lengthier. With the average furnishings designed to "last" 10-13 years I can see why. Afterall, it is very difficult to justify replacing that "perfectly good" sofa, loveseat and albeit matchy-matchy chair and a half! So, what do you do when your (fill in the blank: budget; significant other; schedule; work; family; conscience; budget) won't accomodate the full-scale revamp your mind's eye envisions? The good news is- you don't have to put yourself in the position of needing a government bailout to refresh and renew your design portfolio. There are countless ways to refresh your environment with little to no outlay of your hard-earned cash.



Today, we'll explore perhaps the most powerful redesign strategy of all: De-Stuff.



This is my sister-in-law's favorite phrase when it comes to redesign. Get rid of the extras. Simplify. Also known as de-cluttering, de-stuffing does require an degree of discipline and detachment, as you systematically identify, decide and in some way, ditch, the unnecessary objects that are contributing to the chaos of your space. You know what they say- "Familiarity breeds contempt." The same is true of stuff. Too much stuff fuels design discontent. You must get rid of it! November is the perfect month to start your De-Stuffing campaign. Best of all, discarded items can be donated to your local thrift shop where they will be re-purposed by a new family just in time for the holidays. Don't forget to catalog your donations and save your receipt for 2008 tax season deductions.



Your newly De-Stuffed design area will be ready for a thorough cleaning and provides an inspiring blank canvas for dramatic holiday decorating. Your most cherished holiday decorations will standout, highlighted against their newly uncluttered and simplified backdrop.



**Let me know what you think about De-Stuffing...



Next Post: Progress on De-Stuffing... taking my own advice.