Simple Ways to Give Your Room's Style a Cool Upgrade

Transforming a room to look cool and modern can seem daunting. But with a few clever upgrades, you can easily give any space a stylish facelift. Follow these tips to infuse your room with an effortlessly cool vibe.

First, assess the room's current design and determine which elements need a refresh. Focus on pieces that make the biggest impact, like lighting, wall decor, and furniture. Even small tweaks to these core components can drastically change the aesthetic.

Setting the Mood with Cool Lighting Ideas

Lighting instantly shifts the ambiance in a room. Consider swapping outdated fixtures for trendy pendant lights, sconces or edgy floor lamps. Accent lighting adds moodiness and dimension. Try string lights, table lamps, or under-cabinet lighting in unexpected places. The lighting in a cool room should be flexible - use dimmers, smart bulbs, and layers of light.

Ambient Accent Lighting Options

Installing accent lighting draws focus to specific areas, and creates an intimate vibe. Uplighting behind furnishings generates a relaxing glow. Try LED strip lights under beds or behind headboards. Sconces flanking the bed provide handy reading light. Accent the sofa or chairs with adjustable clamp lights. Under-cabinet lighting illuminates display shelving. Picture lights spotlight artwork, without glare.

Fun String Lights for a Chill Vibe

Nothing says laidback style like string lights. Use bulbs with cool hues like blues or greens to set a mellow mood. Outline architectural details, like windows or the headboard area. Suspend strands above the bed for a whimsical focal point. Drape lights across doorways or the ceiling to define separate zones. Opt for classic sparkling incandescent or energy-efficient LED.

Upgrading Lamps and Fixtures

An outdated ceiling fixture can ruin an otherwise cool room. Replace a bland boob light with a sleek drum pendant or cluster of edgy globes. Swap generic lampshades for sculptural silhouettes with interesting shapes and textures. Smart bulbs let you control lighting colors and dimness from an app. Install a dimmer switch for flexibility. The goal is atmospheric, adjustable lighting.

Playing with Light and Shadows

Create intrigue and dimension with strategic lighting placement. Uplights in corners generate dramatic shadows on the walls and ceiling. Side table lamps, reading lights and picture lights add pools of light. Backlight objects on floating shelves using concealed LED strips. Use sheers or frosted lampshades to diffuse harsh bulbs. The interplay between light and shadow is the hallmark of a cool, edgy space.

Add Interest with Unique Wall Decor

Your walls offer ample opportunity to exhibit creativity. Look for wall decor that speaks to your interests and personality. Opt for an unexpected shape, striking colors or an unconventional material. Maximize the wall area to make a bold style statement in any small or large room.

Gallery Walls with Eclectic Art

Personalize your space by displaying treasured art and photos in a gallery wall. Include a combination of frames, prints, posters, paintings and 3D objects. Vary the sizes and shapes. Hang pieces asymmetrically at varying heights for interest. Paint the wall a dark accent shade to let your art pop. A gallery wall showcases your passions and worldview.

3D Textured Wall Panels

Textured 3D wall panels and tile instantly upgrade basic drywall. Self-adhesive options like shiplap, hexagon tiles, and reclaimed wood are easy DIY projects. Or install intricate 3D molded panels. Paint panels an unexpected color, or just use as an accent wall. Textures add tactile appeal, dimension, and an element of sophistication.

Framed Posters and Prints

Display favorite posters, pages from books, sheet music or maps in quality frames. Opt for simple black frames so the art takes center stage. Arrange in groups for impact. Better yet, frame embellished wallpaper inside shadow boxes for unique, affordable art. Framed prints and posters let you decorate on a budget.

DIY Geometric Wall Designs

Get creative with geometric shapes like lines, circles, and triangles painted or applied right on the wall. Use washi tape to form patterns and designs. Or make painter's tape triangles, diamonds, and chevrons for a textural look. Paint zig-zags or concentric rectangles in contrasting colors. Geometric accents give an artistic edge.

Choose Modern Furniture Pieces

Furniture dictates a room's style more than almost any other element. Invest in a few updated modern pieces to bring a cool vibe. The furnishings should feel curated yet casual - not overly matched or formal. Prioritize quality over quantity.

Sleek, Minimalist Bed Frames

An impressive bed frame acts as a striking focal point. Look for a low-profile platform style in metal, wood, or upholstered fabric. Clean lines and tapered legs have a light, airy feel. Built-in headboards with subtle detailing, like tufting or nailheads, add interest. The goal is an uncluttered, streamlined silhouette.

Cool Bar Carts for Drinks and Storage

A bar cart instantly infuses retro charm, while providing storage and serving space. Opt for a brass-framed industrial style, or acrylic cart with copper accents. Stock with cocktail essentials and decor like vases, books and trays. Bar carts convey a classy yet carefree sensibility. Roll to wherever the fun is happening!

Comfy Accent Chairs in Bold Colors

Make a splash with vibrant, unique accent chairs, ideal for lounging. Consider an iconic Eames lounge chair, or curvy Papasan chair. Vintage finds from thrift stores have quirky appeal. Velvet and leather upholstery looks luxe. Accent chairs provide cozy seating and make great statements.

Multifunctional Furniture Finds

Discover space-saving furniture that multitasks. Look for benches with built-in storage, tufted ottomans with lids, and side tables with drawers. Expandable dining tables save room when not entertaining. Bunk beds, trundle beds, and Murphy beds maximize space. Convertible coffee tables transition from dining to lounging. Functional furniture simplifies small spaces.

Infuse Your Style with Hip Decor Accents

Take your room to the next level with trendy accents that express your style. Play with patterns, introduce captivating textures, and work in metallic touches. Display meaningful trinkets and collections. Accent decor provides those personal, finishing touches.

Patterns and Textures with Rugs, Pillows, Throws

An easy way to try new patterns and textures is with pillows, throws and rugs. Geometric prints, global motifs, and abstract shapes kick things up a notch. Try wool shag rugs, faux sheepskin throws, and textured lumbar pillows. Embroidered and embellished details add flair. live plants. Swap basic curtains for patterned styles.

Trendy Plants like Succulents and Air Plants

Houseplants instantly boost a room's cool factor while purifying the air. Succulents, cacti, and air plants are perfect for beginners and low maintenance. Create fun displays on wall-mounted planters, hanging planters, tabletop terrariums, and plant stands. Set plants near windows or grow lights for nourishment. Greenery energizes any interior.

Mirrored and Metallic Accents Add Glam

Add a glitzy edge with accents in reflective metallics. Use metallic spray paint on fixtures like table lamps or sconces. Metallic end tables with glass tops distinguish seating areas. A mirrored cabinet or coffee table opens up the room. Gold picture frames and mirrored wall art add elegance on a budget.