5 home decor trends that make any space one of a kind

Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes

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SALT LAKE CITY — Whether you’re owning, renting or still living with your parents, making your space quintessentially your own is what makes it feel like home. The biggest trends in home decor reflect that desire to turn an average room into something incredibly unique.

You don’t have to be a professional designer to implement these trends; any do-it-yourself-er can get to work and make any of these five popular trends their own.

Painted furniture

All it takes to give new life to old pieces of furniture is a fresh coat of paint. The trend has been around for ages but gained popularity in the down economy as budgets have shrunk and DIY has become a way of life. Painting old furniture not only makes a piece feel new, it’s the perfect way to make something one-of-a-kind and completely original.

“The trend in the last couple of years has continued to evolve by painting those old castoffs with brightly color hues,” writes Rhoda for Southern Hospitality. “It’s a great way to add that pop of color in the room to really wake up your space.”

Not only is painting furniture a fun and adventurous way to make a big impact — it’s also easy to do and side businesses are springing up to meet the demand. Rumor has it that local thrift stores have significantly upped their used furniture prices, because now that people have discovered this trend, they’re choosing to revive their pieces instead of donating.

Wallpaper

The wallpaper trend seems to have homeowners sharply divided. Interior designer Katie Beth of thekbfiles.com gives us her personal feelings on both sides of the debate: “When I hear the word ‘wallpaper’ I instantly picture the early ‘90s faded floral wallpaper that lined the halls of my mother's upstairs hallway and immediately cringe,” she writes.

The wallpaper of today, however, has come a long way. With patterns ranging from bold and colorful to chic and sophisticated, wallpaper has made a comeback and won over even the skeptics.

“One of the best trends around lately is adding a dose of color and interest with a fabulous wallpaper — especially for those of us that get a little nervous when trying to pull in more color or pattern,” Katie Beth writes. For beginners, she suggests trying out wallpaper in a small space for little work and a lot of impact.

Gallery walls

Whether displaying your favorite family photos, a burgeoning art collection or a grouping of treasured quirky items, a gallery wall is a popular way to create a one-of-a-kind look for your home.

“Instead of featuring one large painting, collage-style groupings of small framed pieces are an affordable and on-trend alternative,” writes Lesley Myrick for lampsplus.com. “Mixing and matching art, mirrors and photographs creates a richly layered look.”

Reclaimed materials

Recycled materials, repurposed items and earth-friendly products are a stylish way to reduce waste and help out mother nature.

–- Lesley Myrick

The green trend isn’t just about a color — eco-friendly design is a hot topic for designers and DIY-ers alike.

“Recycled materials, repurposed items and earth-friendly products are a stylish way to reduce waste and help out mother nature,” Myrick says. One way homeowners are interpreting this trend is by using reclaimed wood. “Charming and rustic, reclaimed wood has transitioned from furniture to walls and floors. The weathered texture and relaxed look makes this a trend that's sure to stay.”

Using any old thing to become any new thing makes this trend easy for anyone to adopt. It’s all about repurposing and finding creative ways to use things that would otherwise be discarded.

Outdoor rooms

When designing your home, think outside the box — literally. Backyards aren’t just for barbecues and gardens. Designers and savvy homeowners are maximizing their living spaces by designing outside areas to accommodate typically indoor activities.

Mike Morris, editor of managemylife.com, says outdoor living was a big trend at the Miami Home Show, but the concept is gaining ground for people in all climates. “Enhancements such as fire pits, outdoor kitchens, spas, accent lights and water features allow homeowners to get greater enjoyment out of the existing space in their homes — including the outdoors,” he says.