“A mirror can act as another window,” says New York City interior designer Libby Langdon, “practically doubling the natural light.” Jana Bek, an interior designer and home decor maker in Ann Arbor, Michigan, suggests hanging one opposite a window, a piece of artwork, or wallpaper to increase the impact of these elements in your space. Search for a knob with a unique shape or a finish that complements the room’s existing furnishings—say, one with the same patina as the main light fixture. Switching out the hardware on kitchen or bathroom cabinets can also create a dramatically new look. If you’re up for a slightly bigger project, a fresh coat of paint on cabinets and doors will give your space a boost. Dark grout, says Morris, should be handled by a pro because making the seams appear smooth can be more difficult. While you’re in there, consider replacing your shower curtain rod with a curved bar—this offers more elbow room in a narrow shower stall. Have a long hallway or stairwell that could use some love? Elsie Larson, cofounder of the lifestyle blog A Beautiful Mess, suggests giving it purpose and personality with a gallery wall of sentimental photos. Place black-and-white prints in inexpensive frames of the same size and color to keep things uniform, she says. Laura Hur, a Homepolish interior designer in New York City, suggests installing dimmers too. “Different tasks require different amounts of light,” she says, “and there is nothing worse than an overly lit dinner party.” Give table and floor lamps a modern update by trading bell-shaped or pleated shades for crisp white drum shades.
