There’s a certain euphoria that comes with moving into your new place. After all, where else in your life do you get to fully stretch out and take full ownership of a space and truly make it yours? From decorating to painting, this is your chance to leave your mark and your style on your home.

However, what is the best way to turn a boring old house into a home that wows? “A space transforms into a home when it’s somewhere you can nurture your soul and the loved ones you share it with,” explains Megaan Pelaar, interior design and broker associate with Lothamer & Company. We spoke to her to find out how to best transform your space so that it really feels like a home you love. Read on to see her tips and tricks.

• Find a Few Key Pieces That Keep Things Cozy—“Cozy furniture that creates conversation spaces in each room is an absolute must!” Pelaar tells us. “Use pieces like rugs to help create identifiable rooms.”
• Lighting Is for More Than Reading—“Lighting is also a great way to make your space feel homier. Don’t just rely on the harsh overhead lighting; set the cozy mood by setting up lamps that soften the room and help it glow,” she suggests.
• Don’t be Afraid to Hang That Art—One of the most simple ways to transform a space is with art, but sometimes people get too worried to hang their art because it feels too permanent. Don’t let a little nail in your wall scare you away from working with your artistic vision. “Feel free to move and let art fluctuate with your life stages,” Pelaar encourages.
• What Some Life Into Your Space—“Don’t underestimate the power of greenery. Live plants soften a room and Pelaar advises them to be placed throughout the house as a way of bringing life and joy into the home, especially during long and cold winters.
• Don’t Underestimate the Power of Greenery— Live plants soften a room and Pelaar advises them to be placed throughout the house as a way of bringing life and joy into the home, especially during long and cold winters.
• All About Blending two Particular Styles—Of course, it may not be just you in your home that you have to take into consideration. When dealing with multiple design styles, play with neutrals and accents. “Use your accents to bring out character, like things that are quirky or special to you, but try and keep the bones (furniture, rugs, window treatments) more neutral. This will complement a variety of styles and still let your home feel put together, ” Pelaar explains.
• Help Your Home Grow—”Spaces should grow with you, I am a big believer in spaces being ‘alive’,” Pelaar tells us. “Change is good and always, always edit! Don’t be afraid to try new things because who you were when you moved in doesn’t have to be who you are forever.”