Berkeley Holley has been designing spaces for hotels, restaurants, bars and homes for over 10 years. Her full-service interior design business offers renovation, construction and furnishing services to clients looking to revamp their spaces. Holley & Co. Interior Design can be contacted at 832-564-7588 or www.holleyinteriors.com.

What are some simple ways to update or modernize a home on a budget?

The most effective and simplest way to transform a space is paint. Paint can revive anything, whether it’s a new color for the walls, cabinets, a piece of furniture or even flooring. Exterior to interior, paint is your friend. Some additional budget-friendly ways to update your home is to add visual interest with pops of color such as new art, throw pillows and rugs, add or remove architectural details such as moldings, and upgrade your lighting and hardware. Lighting and hardware are the details that represent the jewelry of your home—let it make a statement and create that wow factor.

What is the best approach to choosing color palettes in paint, decor and furniture?

There is no doubt that decorating with color is a powerful tool and very personal task. ... You always want to factor in the base elements that can’t or won’t be altered, such as the color of the flooring, window frames, fireplace, exposed brickwork or any other permanent features. Choose colors that sit beside each other on the color wheel to create a harmoniously coordinated palette, and complementary colors for a bolder dramatic approach without clashing. Always anchor your bolder pops of color with neutrals that work with your color choices.


Color and design trends are fun to follow, and we always want the next best thing, but they change too often to keep up with. For a more timeless approach, choose a neutral palette for your main pieces and the higher-priced items, and add pops of color with an accent wall, throw pillows or accessory pieces that can be swapped out when you tire of them without breaking the budget.

Do you have staging tips for those looking to sell?

When selling a home, you want potential buyers to be able to visualize themselves in the space. Declutter each area, remove personal photos and minimize the furniture allowing for easy flow. Most importantly, deep clean, from the baseboards to the fans and blinds. Replace old faucets or fixtures, and apply a fresh coat of paint to cabinets and/or walls for a fresh, clean look.