Your style and taste may change over time. Here are some simple tips on how to transition from one decorating style to another.

In my last post, I shared that I am embracing more of a cottage style in our home and less modern farmhouse. It’s more casual and comfortable and a bit lighter (although, I’m planning on keeping some of my black furniture.) Changing your decorating style doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or expensive. When two styles share common ground, the shift can be subtle, strategic and intentional but you need a plan.

Here’s how to make the shift without starting over.

1. Start Slow (Because Style Evolves Over Time)

I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, decorating your home with intention is a marathon, not a sprint. Some people call it slow decorating; letting a space evolve instead of rushing to fill it. Rather than overhauling a room in one sitting, live with it a while, try things in different spaces and let inspiration grow organically. I know you want it all to change in one day (because I do, too) but you’ll be happier in the long run and probably spend less money.

Try starting in one area. I started in our primary bedroom. It has a much more relaxed feel than the rooms downstairs with lighter furniture and accessories.

2. Use What You Already Have (Then Edit Thoughtfully)

Before buying anything new (ok, maybe an inspiration piece or two), take stock of what you already love in your home.

Ask yourself:

What still works? Purge what doesn’t and either donate it or, better yet, sell it on Facebook Marketplace and use the money to buy new things.
What can I use in a different space? Simply moving things around can create a whole new look
What can I use in a different way or use for a DIY project? Can that basket hold small logs by the fire instead of towels in the bathroom. Many pieces can work beautifully in a new style if you edit them back into your space in fresh ways.

So, how am I approaching this project?

What still works: All of my furniture (although I am always on FBMP looking for inexpensive, unique and fun pieces), I may paint some of the pieces if the space feels it needs it.

All of my go to accessories still work, but I may scale down a bit and retire some of the ones that really feel tired. I’ll also switch some things up from room to room.

To soften things a bit, I’ll add in more textiles like throw pillows and blankets, rugs and tablecloths and placemats. this is where most of my budget will go. You know I LOVE thrifting, but I also thinks it’s important to add in some new things as well to keep it fresh and balanced.

I love these solid green and green floral pillows!

What can I uses in a different space? I will probably shuffle some furniture around. Maybe move the bench on the landing to the kitchen, maybe the side chairs in the den to the family room.

What can I use in a different way? What doesn’t work are some of the overly farmhouse pieces, some of my signs and some of the black furniture. Some will get painted for a fresh look and feel.

Remember to keep it personal! You can follow all of the “this is what this style should look like” guidelines but in the end, it’s all about you. In my Ebook, BeYOUtiful Interiors, I talk about “personality pieces”. No matter what style you like, adding meaningful finds like vintage elements, personal artwork or family heirlooms, makes spaces feel less cookie-cutter and more collected.

3. Paint What You Have Before Replacing It.

Oh the power of paint! One of the most impactful, and budget-friendly, tools in your design arsenal is paint. Before shopping for new furniture or accents, consider how new paint colors (on furniture, walls or picture frames for example) could give your existing items a fresh look and feel.

I took these textured vases (you can see the original DIY project here) and gave them more of a cottage feel. The black feels so dark now so I gave them a simple update with craft paint.

4. Introduce New Pieces Slowly

If your current and target styles are closely related, you don’t need all new decor. Instead, introduce a few key pieces over time.

A few new throw pillows in a combined color scheme
A statement light fixture that bridges both styles
A new rug that complements your existing color palate

I’m adding more wood accents to warm up the space. I switched out the white shelf that has been in this space forever with this wood one I picked up at a garage sale over the summer for just $10.

I also added more wood frames and rearranged the prints. You can fine my favorite digital prints on Etsy.

Having one focal point serves as a bridge between styles, giving the space direction without overwhelming it. I started doing this with the rug in our family room.

5. Think About Color and Cohesion

Color is one of the easiest ways to unify different elements, event when styles shift. To keep things cohesive:

Chose a consistent color palette that flows through adjacent spaces (mine is always GREEN)
Use neutrals as your base and layering in muted accent tones.
Stick to 2-3 main hues so things feel intentional rather than random

Think of color like a thread that ties your evolving story together. Here I’m sticking to blue and greens throughout.

6. Maintain Flow From Room to Room

Even if you’re only transitioning one room at a time, consider how if flows with the adjacent spaces. Shared wall colors, repeated material textures, or consistent window treatments all help maintain visual continuity.

Moving from one decoration style to another, especially when they’re similar, isn’t about erasing who you’ve been, but about feeling more of who you are now. Think of your home as a living storybook, rather than a pre-designed catalog room. Start slow, use what you have, make intentional swaps, and let you collection develop over time. Most importantly, remember to have fun with it and make it your own.