Not all home updates or makeovers take a lot of time. Today, I’m sharing a floor lamp makeover that took me about 30 minutes!
I’ve had this lamp for a while in my living room. I purchased it when this space was mostly white and light gray. It was a very cottage style look. And, the driftwood finish of this lamp worked perfectly with the style of the space. But, as my style has evolved, the look of this room has changed. The white slipcovered sofa was replaced by the vintage french sofa that I reupholstered. You can see that process in this post.
Then, the faux mantel went from white to black. And, the white shiplap was painted a moody green shade. But, the lamp remained the same. As I was looking through photos from my 2020 summer home tour, I noticed the disconnect. The finish of the lamp just didn’t work well with the look of the rest of the room.
Decor tip: Look at your home through the lens of your camera. Take photos and look at them. we get used to just living in our homes and don’t always notice when things could be styled better. But, seeing a picture of a space helps you to really see the details.
I did think about getting a new lamp. Something brass with a white shade. But, then I decided to give the floor lamp makeover with paint and a new shade. I had the paint on hand, so that equals free!!! And, a new white drum shade from HomeGoods was just $16.99! That’s quite a bit less than the cost of a new floor lamp!
And, it only took me about 30 minutes to paint two coats on the floor lamp! For projects like this, I like to use a long handled artist brush. I usually pick up a variety pack of inexpensive arts and crafts brushes from Hobby Lobby or Walmart that I pull from for this kind of small project! And, they are usually under $10 for a variety pack. I think the long handles provide more control and they are so easy to clean up after a small job like this one!
It’s a small project, but I feel like the change is dramatic! The lamp now fits perfectly in the living room!
Debbie Fisher
It is amazing what a little paint can do! and the new shade as well. I have an antique floor lamp that seriously needs a new shade and I’ve yet to find one to fit. It is huge and I haven’t even been able to find one at an antique store.
Darlene
You are correct! It was nice in the wood colour but the black does blend better. Good job!
Michele M
You are absolutely right! It looks perfect now!
I love your changes – and the moody green shiplap? LOOOOOVE that shade of green there.
Well done – the whole room is so freshly updated and comfortable – I’d love to sit on that gorgeous sofa and sip tea with you and just look around at your great taste in furnishings and decor!
lynne
love the black….. it really draws attention to the lamp!! good decision!
Shirley
The black was the pop that brought the lamp to life and the white shade completed the transformation. Before, if noticed, the lamp looked out of place. Now, thanks to your well spent hour, it has a deserved spot in the room. Pretty!
Melinda
I love finding ways to update inexpensively.! Your whole room looks great.