Small change big difference: simple style updates that will stop them in their tracks

Updating a space doesn't have to mean investment buys or furniture removal vans - let Livingetc show you how one quick change can add some instant wow to any room.

1. Statement shower curtain

Who says shower curtains should be plain white, covered in rubber ducks or world maps? This ruffled colourful shower curtain takes centre stage in this otherwise zen-like bathroom, bringing both texture and brightness to the room. Nothing like a splash of colour to stop actual splashes.

2. Colourful textiles

A quick fix to a colourless room is using soft furnishings to bring in some brightness. This yellow throw and cushion instantly update this dark bedroom and seem even brighter against it's black walls. The gold bedside light and wall decoration complement the shade without distracting from that zesty pop of colour.

3. Painted stairs

If you're not a fan of carpet and want to make a statement with your stairs, try giving them a lick of paint. This ultra modern home went for a painted bright blue staircase which makes an impact as soon as you step through the door. The beauty of paint is you can get in any colour of the rainbow - for stairs try using exterior paint for extra toughness.

4. Hanging bedside lights

Do the unexpected with your bedside lights and go for hanging lamps rather than housing them on the usual bedside table, especially if you're short on space.
You can pick and choose the design of both the shade and the flex to coordinate them with your scheme like this industrial black pendant and flex - or choose colours and patterns to make them stand out more.

5. Bright artwork

A print or poster is a quick and easy addition to bring some fun into a space - without this bright, happy artwork this children's room is lacking in personality. The large scale of this Jour de Fete poster means that the joyful colours and text dominate the room, bringing all the fun of the fair to playtime.

6. Go big

Experimenting with scale creates drama to a space and forces the viewer to look at the room with a different perspective. We're not just talking giant objects - big prints on textiles or walls and work just as well. This larger than life blue industrial lamp takes over this bedroom, and is sure to make you feel small and cosy when you're tucked between the sheets.

7. Colour-pop chairs

If you're making one new purchase, why not make it a bright one? Who cares if it doesn't fit in with your room scheme, the more it clashes the better. These tomato red plastic armchairs bring a much needed pop of colour to this seating area, with their high shine contrasting beautifully to the rustic feel of the painted blackboard wall.

8. Make a lighting feature

Japanese lanterns. They cost next to nothing. Make the most out of surely the cheapest design classic and make a lighting feature by shepherding a whole flock of them onto your ceiling. This black lighting installation creates a whimsical, dream like feel in this pale living room - talk about low effort high impact.