Shabby chic decor is definitely on trend and many people are looking for creative ways to recreate a shabby chic look in their home. There are a few essential elements that are important to include. Some efforts will involve some sweat equity, but the payoff is well worth it. Consider including these elements when you’re creating a shabby chic living room set.
1. Wood
Distressed wood is a major part of shabby chic decor. There are plenty of home goods stores that sell furniture where the wood is already distressed. However, this is a project anyone can do at home. Consider the coffee table. Go to a local thrift store or garage sale and find a wooden coffee table. As long as the structural properties are in good shape, any wooden coffee table will work. Purchase an electric sander and sand down any excess sheen, primer or paint from the previous owner. Afterward, apply a thin coat of primer and your choice of paint. Once the paint dries, use a piece of sandpaper to lightly distress the paint job to get the look you’re going for. It’ll look just as nice as what you see in the stores, but it will be at a fraction of the price.
2. Lighting
Fire is an important element involved in a shabby chic decor. Oftentimes, the concept of fire is incorporated through the use of candles as adequate light sources. Even though you may not be able to use candles to really light up an entire living room without creating a fire hazard, you can still use a similar idea with electric lighting. Try out a sphere chandelier that has electric candles as light sources. Hire a licensed electrician to wire and hang the lighting in the middle of the room for an authentically chic look. They’ll have the same effect. It’s also nice to keep a few scented candles in the room. They’re great when you’d like mood lighting. They are also helpful for adding cozy ambiance to any room.
3. Fabrics
Fabrics like lace and linen are commonly found in shabby chic decor. Incorporate lace by using it in the details of the window treatments. You can add on some lace trimming to the edges of a few decorative pillows. Plush linens are very important as well. Consider finding a few faux fur throw blankets to keep on the couches for comfort. A faux fur rug is always a nice addition to a living room during the cooler months. Light linen blankets are great options for the warmer months.
In addition to these elements, paint, art and lots of natural light will create a perfectly chic room. As long as the colors align and complement one another well, there’s really no way you can go wrong.
