Divorce is one of the toughest life events most people will ever have to handle. Once your divorce is granted, you’re officially free to start a new life – and part of that might include reinventing your living space. Giving your home a new look can boost your mood, improve your general outlook and help you move on.
Redecorating after Divorce: The Basics
You don’t have to throw out every piece of furniture, every area rug or every piece of wall art in order to redecorate after divorce. Simply rearranging your existing furniture, adding a dash of paint and adjusting your lighting can transform an old space into the place of your dreams.
First, walk through the house and take down anything that reminds you of your ex; everything from photos to the painting you never liked should go. You can also use this time to remove clutter and reorganize all your belongings so they’re exactly where you want them. Once all that’s gone, you have a clean slate to make your own.
Fresh Paint, Fresh Start
Your North York divorce lawyer can help you put away the past, but fresh paint can help you pave the way for the future. Redecorating is a vital part of the healing process, according to psychotherapist Noel O’Malley, and choosing new shades of paint that match your style and personality can revitalize the whole house.
While you’re at it, rearrange your furniture. Something as simple as moving a chair across the room can make the entire space feel new.
Throw away your old bedding and start over. Purchase inexpensive sheet sets and a new comforter at your local department store; if you’re up for it, splurge on new pillows and toss the old ones in the trash, as well.
Lighten and Brighten
The correct lighting in a room can change its entire feel. Add lamps to shady corners, add wattage to dim bulbs and replace old, boring light covers with inexpensive new ones from your local home improvement store. A few decorative candles, strategically placed around your living room, dining area and kitchen, will transform even the busiest places into calm, restful spaces.
When to Redecorate
It’s generally a good idea to wait until your North York divorce lawyer has given you the green light before you redecorate, especially if you’re uncertain whether you or your spouse will get the house, or if you may have to sell it as part of your divorce.
Redecorating with Kids
Even after your North York divorce lawyer says you’re free to redecorate, consider your kids’ feelings. Remember that your former spouse is still their parent, and removing every trace of him or her from the home may make the process harder on them.
Ask your kids for input as you repaint, buy new furniture or art, or move furniture around so they don’t feel like you’re leaving them out of an “adult” decision. If they’re old enough, they may even enjoy revamping the space with you.
