Before you redecorate: 7 things to check in your living room

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Redecorating your living room is an exciting home project. New colours, fresh furnishings, a little styling magic – it’s amazing what a few changes can do to lift the whole vibe of your home.

But before you get stuck into choosing paint samples and scattering new cushions, it’s a good idea to take a step back and look at the basics. After all, no amount of fancy styling can hide cracks in the walls or an uncomfortable draught sneaking through.

Here’s a roundup of things you should check before redecorating your living room, so you can create a beautiful space that’s both stunning and structurally sound.

1. Ceilings: the unsung hero of your room

Most of us are guilty of forgetting to look up, but your ceiling plays a huge role in how your living room feels. Cracks, discolouration, watermarks, or sagging plaster can be subtle signs of wear, or even bigger issues lurking above.

In areas like Perth, where heat and humidity can cause ceilings to shift or deteriorate over time, a quick inspection is a smart move. Many homeowners choose to sort out minor issues with professional ceiling repairs Perth before splashing out on new lighting or decor. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes fixes that can make a big difference to your final look.

2. Walls and paintwork: the backdrop matters

Are your walls in good condition? Little things like hairline cracks, scuffed corners, or bubbling paint might not seem like much, but they’ll stand out even more when you smarten up the rest of the room.

If you spot any issues, consider whether a simple patch-up will do or if you need to address underlying problems like damp. It’s much easier to fix these now than after you’ve rearranged all the furniture!

You should also check if previous wall anchors, screws, or hooks need to be removed and patched properly. A smart wall surface is the perfect canvas for your design vision.

3. Flooring: the foundation of comfort

Whether you’ve got tiles, timber, or carpet, flooring sets the tone of the room.

Look out for worn spots, loose boards, or tired carpet patches. Sometimes a good professional clean can work wonders, but in some cases, you might need to replace a section or rethink your covering entirely.

Adding a new rug might seem like a quick fix, and often it is. However, you need to make sure any underlying damage is sorted first to keep the living room cosy and safe for the family.

4. Windows and doors: little details, big impact

Windows and doors do more than connect you to the outside world. They’re key players in your room’s light, airflow, and energy efficiency.

Before redecorating, pay attention to the following areas:

• Check for any gaps or leaks that could let in drafts or dust.
  
• Make sure locks and handles are secure and working properly.
  
• Check window frames for signs of rot. This is particularly relevant to older properties.

Updating window treatments like blinds or curtains can make a big style statement, but they’ll look even better with clean, well-functioning windows behind them. Think about whether you need UV-blocking films or heavier curtains to protect your furnishings from fading in strong sun.

5. Lighting: function and mood

Lighting is one of the most overlooked aspects of a living room upgrade, yet it has a huge impact on the mood and functionality of the space.

Ask yourself:

• Is the existing lighting too harsh or too dull?
  
• Are the fixtures outdated?
  
• Could dimmable lights add versatility?

Now is a great time to consider adding layers of light. Ideally you need overhead lighting for general use, task lighting for reading nooks, and accent lighting to highlight art or architectural features.

And don’t forget about the condition of ceiling fixtures. Damaged or loose fittings should be sorted out before you launch into any major redecoration.

6. Power points and tech setups

Modern living rooms are hubs for technology. TVs, sound systems, charging stations, and even home automation are all common features.

Take stock of your current power points before redecorating your living room:

• Are there enough for your needs?
  
• Are they in the right locations?
  
• Are they showing signs of wear or damage?

If you’re planning on rearranging your living room layout, you might need to move or add new power points. It’s easier (and safer) to get this sorted before bringing in new furniture or wall mounts.

7. Airflow and temperature control

Comfort is key in a living room, especially when you’re entertaining or relaxing with family.

Think about:

• Ceiling fans: Are they clean, working well, and rotating correctly for the season?
  
• Air conditioners: Do filters need cleaning or servicing?
  
• Insulation: Is the room losing cool air too quickly in summer, or struggling to stay warm in winter?

In cities like Perth, where climate extremes are common, ensuring good airflow and insulation can save you money on energy bills and make your living room a true sanctuary.

Redecorating is all about transforming your space into something you love, but it’s also a brilliant opportunity to create strong foundations that last.

By giving a little love to the ‘hidden’ elements such as ceilings, floors, windows, and airflow, you’ll avoid future headaches and ensure your living room not only looks beautiful but feels amazing too. Next time you’re ready to dive into a decorating project, don’t forget to use this checklist first.