8 Ways to Create that Wow Factor in Your Home
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We’ve all experienced it... whether you’re browsing online, visiting a home décor store, or perusing through a magazine and you see that WOW FACTOR that stops you in your tracks because it’s so captivating?! There is absolutely no mistaking it; it’s that unexpected, super impressive feature done so well, your jaw drops and makes you go, “WOW!”
These moments are not just built for showrooms, they can and should happen in our homes as well. If we overdo it, we can lose the feeling, comfort, and character of what makes our place feel like a home. So, seeking the perfect sweet spot that takes your décor to the next level is just the edge you need.
Together, let’s explore eight ways to create WOW FACTOR moments in your home!
WOW FACTOR 1 – Paint
Paint is a great statement item that not only adds a certain “pizzazz” to your space, but it’s also an affordable option when you’re looking for a simple place to get started. While there is no harm in having all the walls in a room look similar, it doesn’t add much of a WOW factor.
As you’ve seen and heard me say in my previous posts, paint colors have an amazing ability to not only transform your space but your moods as well! Whether you are using it as way to add texture, a focal point, or just a pop of color, paint is one of the most surefire ways to add an immediate WOW factor.
Including an accent wall adds a nice visual layer and creates depth to your design. Not only does it break up a large space, but it can also highlight architectural features like the molding around your windows. These accent walls undoubtedly make it easier for beautiful pieces in a room to standout!
For example, this mirror and bathroom vanity are great statement pieces. But if it were on a white wall, it would not have the same presence as it does on the contrasting dark wall. Don’t limit your essence or desire to be extravagant. If the color and statement reflect your unique personality and aura, lean in!
Another way to explore paint as a WOW factor is by adding contrasting paint color to the ceiling. I'm so in love with this dining room!
As we (hopefully!) move toward navigating our way out of the pandemic, some families are doing so with an added bundle of joy. Congrats! Using paint to create texture or patterns also gives an unexpected moment that makes people go WOW. Have fun with it! Then add a light fixture that gives the space an all-around perfect final touch.
WOW FACTOR 2 – Wallpaper
Another cost-effective way to create that WOW factor is with wallpaper. Yes! You’ve heard me talk about the rage of wallpaper in my Top trends for 2021 video.
For those of you who don’t know, wallpaper has re-emerged as a design trend for a few reasons. The graphics are fantastic, the technology behind its creation has given it greater depth and made it more substantial, but the arguably most important reason why it is exploding? Wallpaper is now... (drumroll please) … peel-and-stick!
This trend has caught on like wildfire and frankly, I am here for it!
For DIYers like myself, knowing that peel-and-stick wallpaper is now as easy to put on as it is to take off; you should feel inspired to be creative with your accents to create the perfect WOW moment. In the image above, this wallpaper creates a mural-like décor experience for your walls that are big and bold.
Don’t let the creativity stop there! Perhaps you can decide to place it on your ceilings, too.
If you really want to drop every jaw that steps in, don’t stop at a show stopping console table in the foyer. What about adding the wallpaper directly onto your entry stairs? This would be sure to stop someone in their tracks!
Here is an option with bold geometric patterns that creates a statement of its own. Drop the mic on the credenza... next, please!
Not a pattern type? No worries, wallpaper is extremely versatile and has something for just about everyone. How about this high gloss peel-and-stick wallpaper? This one is so beautiful; I had to stop and look twice!
Each of these options give you that unexpected moment, that make people pause, take an interest, and go WOW!
WOW FACTOR 3 – Your Front Door
Who said the Dutch were the only ones who could have fancy entryways?! Just kidding, but come on, talk about curb appeal, there’s nothing like walking up to a home and seeing a striking front door. It just makes you even more excited to see what the décor is going to be like inside.
Throw out your dependence on the entry rug and lean into something greater. Statement doors are far from typical and create that perfect WOW factor for your home.
There are no limitations. It could be the unusual color and/or function of the door.
Or maybe it’s New York chic, primarily made of glass surrounded by large plants.
Perhaps it’s all the above! The size, shape, and/or function of the door that grabs your visitors or passersby’s attention and make them go WOW.
So, get outside, take your measurements, and pick a door that makes your heart swoon!
WOW FACTOR 4 – Foyer
Ok, so you’ve enticed them with a beautiful front door. Now, let’s not disappoint! WOW, them as soon as they step inside.
Surprisingly, foyers and hallways are often ignored spaces in our homes. So, if this a place where you’ve struggled with design, aim toward beauty and functionality no matter the size or shape of the entrance.
While it doesn’t have to be the awe-inspiring wallpapered steps, there are other ways to stop someone in their tracks as they enter your home. So, let’s jump in!
Depending on the size of your foyer, design the space to offer ample natural lighting, seating, and plants. The seating will allow all those entering the space to immediately feel comfortable and welcome just by the décor.
Another jaw dropper is the use of stately mirrors above distinctive credenzas. I love how credenzas have continued to evolve over the years. From multi-colored options, additional shelving, or even with faux marble tops.
A unique accent table and rug is sure to inspire and create a WOW factor too! Whether you add in a small table or large, a boldly stated rug or something more natural, be sure to add a floral arrangement to bring the entire look together.
I love how aesthetically pleasing this entranceway is. It’s not every day that you see a ceiling that looks like your beautiful flooring... WOW.
Finally, how about adding in some bold flooring patterns? This is another example of not knowing whether to ogle and awe at the flooring or the great architectural molding on the ceiling and walls.
WOW FACTOR 5 – Light Fixtures
In nearly every scenario, when it comes to updating a home and giving it a fresh take, lighting come into play. Today, lighting fixtures can be real focal point. Not only is it functional, but more and more, it’s literally becoming a piece of art.
When you select a light fixture that ties together the colors, shapes, and overall design of your space it creates magic. How do you do this?
Take your time as your search. Look for the perfect addition to your rooms architectural design, paint colors, and furniture choices. Let’s explore some tips on getting this right!
Up your home’s WOW factor by finding fixtures that are a bit oversized. It’s no statement if it's not at least slightly dramatic (wink!).
Look for an option that has an unusual shape. It is essentially art after all! So, look for lighting designs that may seem a bit abstract or playful, yet add warmth and texture to your space.
Feeling bold? Great! I say, go big or go home! You can create a WOW statement by adding a light fixture with a unique color. Don’t allow this to limit you to do this in a room with neutral or monochromatic features. There is no fun in that! Brighten the space with another vibrant paint color to create a contrast that pops!
If you think of the lighting fixtures as the room’s jewelry, you’ll easily create a WOW factor moment! Don’t be afraid to go for a feminine touch. These clean line chandeliers are timeless and seem to just improve with time. They add instant elegance, sophistication, and a modern twist that is sure to please the eye!
WOW FACTOR 6 – Oversized Artwork
We may have been discouraged to stop super-sizing our foods for health reasons, but this does not apply to any design approach! This is particularly true when you are seeking an instant WOW factor.
The sheer scale of an oversized picture is enough to create these WOW moments. They are large, bold, and instantly eye-catching.
Whatever you choose, make it big and bold!
If you’re unable to pick up a large canvas or photo, stacking frames together also gives the same effect. Use photos of family, still images, stock photos, or even small paintings to create this dramatic look.
In my opinion, if the images in the frames are meaningful to you and your family, it's so much more impactful. Want to level up? Add wall lights just above the photos to create an illuminating effect. No matter what, I’m sure you’ll get a “WOW, well done!”
WOW FACTOR 7 – Bookshelves
Ah, the home office. When the global pandemic hit, we all re-engineered our home offices (or created one) and got very familiar with the virtual workspace.
On almost every zoom call, someone has bookcases or shelving in their background. So, much so, Zoom created a virtual background with this set-up! Because the truth is, when done correctly, the person on the other end of the call almost always, goes, “ooh, WOW, I love that background!” Score.
You can create that same WOW factor with tall shelving layered with books, artwork, vases, and plants. Here are some ways to create this look.
Use industrial shelving with a modern twist. This is a very affordable yet modern-looking take on shelving design. Allows you to add photos, books with stylish bookends, photographs, and more!
Add standard shelves with brackets all painted out in one color. This is also a very economical yet stylish option.
More of a cube type? Use a bookcase all painted out in one color or built-ins with bold colors completely customized for your unique space.
When in your home or online, each of these design ideas will cause someone to stop, check out your amazing shelving, and say, WOW!
WOW FACTOR 8 – Fireplace Wall
Aaah... who isn’t a sucker for a fireplace wall in the first place?! It’s one of the most natural focal points in a space. A room with a fireplace already evokes a warm, welcoming feeling. So, dressing it up is just taking it to another level. Let’s pinky promise to try hard not to get this one wrong!
Brick is far from being the only option. There are so many ways to creatively elevate your fireplace wall. Let’s stroll down WOW Factor Lane!
You can create the WOW factor by covering the fireplace with a natural stone. In my "What’s In and What’s Out” post, I delved into timeless design options. This fireplace pictured above with a marble and wood design, would fall into this category. Not only does it stand out, it’s modern, chic, and enduring style will stand the test of time.
How breathtaking is this wood and slate combo? I look at the entirety of this space, and just want to live in there forever! It’s sophisticated, stated, and just plain beautiful.
Finally, another great option is simply painting the fireplace in a bold contrasting color. The fireplace pictured above has a modern architectural design with glass. With this type of design there is no need to over-state what is already a statement!
If your home doesn’t have a natural fireplace, but it’s a look you want to create, add in a stylish electric option! No shame in your game, if it’s done well, it will be a timeless WOW factor you’ll love for years to come!
And WOW...that’s a wrap!
If you have a lot of money, your entire house can be built as one big WOW factor! But that’s not the case for most of us. So, I hope this post provided you with a ton of tips and ideas that are sure to help you create WOW factor moments throughout your home that are relatively easy to do.
If you haven’t already, go to my YouTube channel, check out the WOW Factor video. It’s a lot of fun! Be sure to leave me a comment so I can keep track of all the amazing things you are doing and what you may want to delve into next.
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