MAKING ORDER OUT OF CHAOS
CAUGHT OFF GUARD BY HOUSE GUESTS ABOUT TO ARRIVE AT YOUR DOOR? DON’T STRESS. HERE’S HOW YOU CAN GET YOUR PLACE CLEAN, TIDY AND STYLISH IN JUST HALF AN HOUR OR LESS.
Concentrating on key areas in the home and de-cluttering like a pro will transform your home from a danger zone to an inviting sanctuary for visitors, believes Tara Dehbozorgi, interior designer for Coco Republic.
“It is all about the illusion you create with the placement of furniture and accessories. It’s also about unleashing your guests’ senses to manipulate the mind into thinking that the house is cleaner than it actually is,” she says.
We’ve got Tara’s practical tips and styling hints to transform your home in the blink of an eye.
FLOORING
“It’s the first thing that releases the ‘touch’
sense when you walk into a home, therefore a quick sweep over (or vacuum if you have time) ensures your guests won’t get a bad first impression by gathering dust on the soles of their feet,” says Tara.
“If you need a quick fix to hide stains, use a rug or piece of furniture like a side table or ottoman and place it over the stain.”
BATHROOMS
“The basin is the most important area to give a good clean over, as this will be used most by your guests,” says Tara.
“Giving the mirror a quick wipe also goes a long way, as well as grabbing some fresh, clean towels from the cupboard to hang neatly on the rack.”
DE-CLUTTERING
“Use your storage units wisely and grab any little bits and pieces that are lying around and store them quickly before your guests come over,” advises Tara.
“If you don’t have much storage space to spare, fear not. Move through rooms with an empty laundry basket, filling up as you go along, and store the basket in the laundry.”
CREATING STYLE
Tara suggests engaging your guests’ senses from the moment they arrive at your front door.
“Fresh blooms are always my go-to for impressing your guests with little to no effort,” she says.
“Lighting a candle also engages their sense of smell and will create the perfect first impression.” For more expert advice, go to www.lifestyle.com.au