Add Patina to Your New Home

"Strong colors brings walls in, so a room feels smaller and cozier," says Ann Sample, interior designer and author of New Spaces, Old World Charm. Playing with paint techniques, like sponging or stippling, can help lend depth to bland drywall or can mimic decorative details like wainscoting. "And, wallpapers that evoke older design periods bring texture to surroundings, as do wall fabrics made of grass cloth or jute," Sample adds.