Happy New Year and welcome to an exciting new chapter! As we eagerly step into 2023, filled with ambitious home renovation projects and countless DIY opportunities, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the inspiring journey of the past year. Here at Driven by Decor, we’re celebrating 2022 by revisiting the blog posts that resonated most with you, our cherished readers. Whether you’re a newcomer seeking fresh interior design inspiration or a long-time follower catching up on a gem you might have missed, this comprehensive roundup is designed to spark your creativity and empower your home improvement endeavors. From clever decorating tips and transformative room makeovers to ingenious DIY projects and smart organizing solutions, discover the highlights that made 2022 truly unforgettable. Join us as we delve into the most popular content, setting the stage for an even more stylish and functional home in the year ahead. (Please note: This post includes affiliate links, which may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. For our full disclosure policy, please see our disclosure statement here.)
Elevate Your Space: Favorite Decorating Tips & Tricks of 2022
Sharing practical decorating tips and innovative tricks is a cornerstone of Driven by Decor, and it’s always gratifying to see how much you appreciate these insights! In 2022, our most celebrated guide to enhancing your home’s aesthetic was undoubtedly this detailed post on choosing and expertly hanging light fixtures. This reader-favorite article dives deep into the nuances of lighting design, offering invaluable advice on crucial aspects such as determining the ideal height for chandeliers above dining tables or kitchen islands, selecting the perfect pendant spacing, and even mastering the art of choosing the best nightstand lamp height to ensure both functionality and aesthetic harmony. Proper lighting can dramatically transform a room, and this guide provides all the knowledge you need to illuminate your home beautifully.
Beyond lighting, two other decorating posts captivated your attention. First, our recent exploration of guest bedroom ideas offered a wealth of inspiration for crafting a truly welcoming and comfortable retreat for visitors. We explored everything from thoughtful bedding choices to essential amenities, ensuring your guests feel right at home. Creating a serene and inviting atmosphere is key, and this post provided practical solutions for every style and budget.
Secondly, our guide on console table decor styling ideas proved immensely popular. Console tables, often found in entryways, living rooms, or hallways, present a fantastic opportunity to showcase personality and add functional beauty. This post provided creative strategies for layering decor, balancing textures, and arranging various elements to create captivating vignettes that make a lasting impression. From incorporating lamps and books to displaying cherished accessories, we covered all the essential techniques for perfecting your console table’s look.
Transformative Spaces: Unveiling Our Favorite Room Makeovers of 2022
The past year was a whirlwind of renovation and transformation within our home, with several significant projects taking shape. While many of these are still under wraps, awaiting their grand reveal, the anticipation for 2023 is building! We undertook extensive remodeling work in our family room, including a fireplace overhaul that felt like a marathon, and introduced a charming new shiplap ceiling in our “circus room,” along with substantial updates in our dining room. You can look forward to full, detailed room reveals for these spaces in the coming months, offering a deep dive into every design choice and DIY triumph!
Among the completed transformations of 2022, our powder room makeover truly stands out as a reader favorite. This compact yet impactful renovation saw our small hall bathroom evolve from a dated and uninspired space, complete with a basic pedestal sink, an arched mirror, and floral wallpaper that had seen better days, into a stylish, functional, and contemporary haven. The “before” image tells a story of a space ripe for change, hinting at the potential that lay beneath its original facade.
The “after” transformation showcases the power of strategic design. With the addition of elegant shiplap walls, a sophisticated blue wallpaper, a sleek single navy vanity, and a chic round mirror, the powder room now exudes a refined charm and enhanced functionality. This makeover serves as a prime example of how even the smallest spaces can achieve significant impact with thoughtful design and execution.
Another significant personal achievement was completing the final projects in our primary bedroom. This included the crucial steps of adding exquisite new bedside lamps and meticulously hanging our drapes, which beautifully brought the entire space together. Our bedroom, when we first moved in, presented a neutral canvas with beige walls, green curtains, and a standard ceiling fan, offering a clear opportunity for a personalized design vision.
Today, the room boasts a harmonious blend of style and comfort, featuring elegant bedside lamps, a sophisticated floor lamp by a cozy reading chair, and a statement chandelier with shades that cast a warm, inviting glow. This transformation wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about creating a sanctuary.
For an in-depth look at this particular update, including more photos and details about our new bedroom lighting, click here. The response to our bedroom drapes was phenomenal, sparking numerous questions. To address your curiosity, I’m excited to announce that in 2023, I’ll be sharing a comprehensive A to Z guide on drapery, covering everything from where to source the best drapes, expert hanging techniques, insights into the drapery rods I use, and much more! Stay tuned for this essential resource to perfect your window treatments.
Empowering Transformations: Your Favorite DIY Projects of 2022
The spirit of DIY thrived in 2022, and I was thrilled to tackle a variety of projects that not only enhanced our home but also empowered many of you to take on similar challenges. Among all the hands-on endeavors, the undisputed reader favorite was our post detailing the closet makeover using The Container Store’s Elfa system. This project was a testament to the fact that professional-grade organization can be achieved without the hefty price tag, as I saved a significant amount of money by undertaking the installation myself. The article provided a thorough walkthrough, proving that with a little effort and the right guidance, anyone can create a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing closet space.
The results of the Elfa closet transformation were nothing short of spectacular. We dramatically increased not only the hanging space for clothes but also incorporated a wealth of practical drawer storage, making the closet far more efficient and organized. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome, and in the detailed blog post, I share all the specific details, including valuable installation tips and a plethora of “after” photos that showcase the incredible difference a well-planned closet system can make. Explore all the insights and inspiration right here.
Another highly impactful DIY venture was our budget-friendly mini kitchen makeover. I shared a comprehensive post outlining all the creative and cost-effective ideas that went into transforming our kitchen from its “before” state to a beautifully updated and more functional space. This project proves that you don’t need to break the bank to achieve a significant kitchen refresh, focusing instead on smart choices and strategic DIY applications.
The transformation was achieved through innovative solutions such as applying marble contact paper to countertops for a high-end look without the cost, installing a stylish wallpaper backsplash for a pop of personality, and updating cabinet hardware for a fresh, modern feel. These small changes collectively created a dramatic impact, demonstrating the power of budget-conscious design.
For all the specifics on these clever ideas and to see how you can apply them in your own home, delve into the full details here. Additionally, 2022 saw the publication of two essential DIY posts that I had long intended to create: detailed guides on how to paint a room like a professional and how to successfully install wallpaper. These foundational skills are invaluable for any home decorator or DIY enthusiast, offering clear, step-by-step instructions to ensure flawless results and boost your confidence in tackling these common home improvement tasks.
Mastering Your Space: Top Organizing Projects of 2022
Achieving an organized home is a journey, and in 2022, two of our organizing posts stood out as indispensable guides for many readers. The first was this highly practical post featuring 15 ingenious small bathroom storage ideas. Small bathrooms often present unique challenges when it comes to maximizing space, but with creative solutions, every inch can be utilized efficiently. From clever shelving to multi-functional accessories, we covered a spectrum of ideas designed to declutter and optimize even the most compact bathrooms. For those looking to implement some of these brilliant ideas, it’s worth noting that The Container Store’s versatile over-the-door racks, which are fantastic for adding instant storage, are currently available at a special discount. You can explore and shop these essential organizing tools here while the offer lasts.
The second highly popular organizing guide of the year was our comprehensive post on kitchen cabinet organization ideas. Kitchens are often the busiest and most challenging areas to keep tidy, making efficient cabinet organization crucial for both functionality and peace of mind. This article provided actionable strategies for decluttering, categorizing, and arranging everything from pantry staples to cookware, ensuring that every item has its place and is easily accessible. From smart shelving solutions to drawer dividers, we explored various methods to transform chaotic cabinets into models of order.
Additionally, don’t forget to explore my innovative ideas for over-the-toilet storage solutions here. This often-overlooked space offers significant potential for adding valuable storage in bathrooms, and our tips will help you make the most of it without sacrificing style.
Sparkling Clean: Your Favorite Cleaning Tips Post of 2022
Maintaining a clean and welcoming home is essential, and our readers consistently turn to our practical cleaning guides for expert advice. In 2022, your absolute favorite cleaning tips post was this invaluable resource dedicated to cleaning hardwood floors. This comprehensive guide doesn’t just tell you how to clean your beautiful hardwood; it also critically highlights what products and methods you should absolutely avoid to prevent damage and preserve their pristine condition. Hardwood floors add elegance to any home, and understanding the best practices for their care is crucial for their longevity and shine. The post featured practical tools like the spin mop with its triangular head, perfect for reaching corners and ensuring a thorough clean without excessive moisture.
Equally important for an efficient cleaning routine is having the right arsenal of tools. If you missed it, be sure to check out my 2022 post on my favorite cleaning tools here. This guide showcases essential gadgets and clever implements that make everyday cleaning tasks quicker, easier, and more effective. From tackling stubborn dust to reaching high-up areas, these tools are game-changers for maintaining a sparkling home. It features indispensable items such as extendable dusters, perfect for cleaning hard-to-reach fan blades and high ledges, making your cleaning routine more efficient and less strenuous.
Smart Style on a Budget: Another Reader Fave from 2022
One of the most exciting and frequently requested topics in home decor is achieving high-end looks without breaking the bank. In 2022, I was thrilled to share a special “designer looks-for-less” post that quickly became one of your all-time favorites. This feature highlighted several low-cost lookalikes of higher-end decor and furniture pieces here, empowering you to create luxurious spaces on a budget. We showcased incredible “splurge or save” finds, demonstrating how careful sourcing can lead to significant savings without compromising on style or aesthetic quality. The example of a budget-friendly alternative to a high-end rattan lamp perfectly illustrated this concept.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many of you messaging and emailing to say it was one of your favorite Driven by Decor posts ever! This kind of response truly motivates me to continue searching for those fantastic deals. Good news for all you savvy shoppers: look forward to Volume 2 of my latest splurge vs. save finds in 2023, where I’ll uncover even more incredible alternatives to coveted designer pieces. Get ready to style your home beautifully and affordably!
Home Upgrade Heroes: Our Favorite 2022 Purchases
1. The Ultimate Behind-The-Door Storage Cabinet
One of my top discoveries in 2022 was this incredible behind-the-door cabinet, which I installed on the back of the door in my daughters’ bathroom. This ingenious solution instantly provided a significant amount of much-needed storage space, a true blessing given their extensive collection of cosmetics! What makes this cabinet truly remarkable is its design: it attaches directly to the door hinge pins, allowing it to open and close seamlessly in unison with the door itself. Strong magnets ensure it stays securely aligned. Yet, when you need to access its contents, the storage cabinet easily separates from the door, making retrieving items a breeze. It’s a brilliant way to utilize often-wasted space, transforming a cluttered area into a tidy, functional zone.
While my particular behind-the-door cabinet features a clean white panel on the back, there’s also a fantastic alternative available here that includes a full-length mirror. This option adds even more functionality, combining discrete storage with a practical mirror, perfect for getting ready or for smaller spaces where a wall-mounted mirror isn’t feasible. It’s a truly versatile and space-saving addition to any home.
2. Elegant and Practical Dining Chairs
For nearly a year, I had been on an exhaustive search for the perfect upholstered chairs for our dining room. My criteria were specific: comfortable, stylish, and durable. However, every chair that caught my eye came with a price tag exceeding $500 per chair, which was simply not feasible given my need for six. The quest felt endless until I stumbled upon these upholstered side chairs on Amazon. It was an instant match! Not only was I captivated by their elegant aesthetic and quality craftsmanship, but I was also delighted to discover they were mounted on casters, offering effortless mobility—a fantastic feature for dining, allowing chairs to glide smoothly. Best of all, they were approximately half the price of any comparable chairs I had previously found, making them an unbeatable value. This find was truly a game-changer for our dining space.
Once I confirmed that the side chairs were a perfect fit, I completed the dining room ensemble by ordering two of these complementary end chairs. The addition of these end chairs created a cohesive and polished look, enhancing the overall elegance and functionality of our dining area. The entire set now beautifully combines comfort, style, and practicality, making our dining room a truly inviting space for family meals and entertaining guests.
3. Striking Large-Scale Art & Sophisticated Lamp
To truly elevate our dining room, I envisioned a dramatic large-scale art piece positioned above our dining room sideboard. My search led me to a fantastic selection of well-priced art prints available here, offering a diverse range of styles and themes. Ultimately, I chose this stunning unframed art print in the generous 40″ x 55″ size, printed on high-quality canvas. To achieve a professional, gallery-worthy presentation, I meticulously stretched the canvas over these custom stretcher bars and then completed the look with this elegant floating frame in natural pine. The final result exceeded my expectations; the art piece makes a powerful statement, anchoring the room with its impressive presence and artistic flair.
Adding another layer of sophistication to the sideboard styling, I’m absolutely delighted with this gorgeous triple gourd lamp. Its sculptural form and soft glow beautifully complement the large-scale art, adding both warmth and visual interest to the vignette. While the art and lamp have set a magnificent foundation, I’m excited to fully complete the styling of my dining room sideboard, which is a key item on my 2023 to-do list, promising even more refined touches and personalized elements to come.
4. The Convenience and Elegance of Serena Smart Shades
One of the most impactful upgrades we made in 2022, and a personal favorite, was the installation of Serena Smart Shades. I recently shared my enthusiasm for these shades in this post on my smart home products, and the praise continues! These automated shades have completely transformed our glass front doors, looking infinitely better than the clunky, unattractive wood blinds they replaced. When raised, they allow an abundance of natural light to flood into our entryway, creating a bright and airy atmosphere, instantly making the space feel more open and welcoming.
Crucially, when lowered, these Serena Shades provide the privacy we need during the evenings, offering a seamless and elegant solution for light control and seclusion without compromising style. The transition from open and bright to private and cozy is effortless, controlled by a simple touch or a pre-set schedule. It’s a testament to how smart home technology can integrate beauty and functionality.
We extended the installation of these smart shades to the windows in my girls’ bedroom, and the benefits there have been equally impressive. The ability to put them on an automatic schedule, ensuring they go down at sunset, is incredibly convenient, especially since their bedroom faces the street. This automation provides consistent privacy without any manual effort, making their room both more comfortable and secure. For all the comprehensive details, installation insights, and additional photographs of our beautiful and functional Serena Shades, make sure to read this dedicated post.
5. The Enchanting Decorative Faux Clam Shell
It’s hard to articulate why, but I am absolutely obsessed with my decorative faux clam shell! This piece has brought such a unique charm and coastal elegance to our home. I’ve often admired similar, typically pricey, versions at high-end retailers like Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware, where they command a significant investment. However, I was thrilled to discover mine here for under $50, making it an incredibly accessible and stylish decorative accent. It’s also conveniently available here, offering another option for those looking to add this unique touch to their decor.
I acquired it just before the holiday season, and it instantly became the focal point of our entryway console table, beautifully filled with an assortment of festive ornaments. The versatility of this decorative clam shell is what truly excites me for the future. I’m already looking forward to changing up its contents with the changing seasons and various holidays, from fresh florals in spring to mini pumpkins in autumn. It’s a simple yet impactful piece that invites endless creative styling possibilities, adding a touch of sophisticated whimsy to any space.
6. Essential Cord Organizers for a Clutter-Free Home
One of the most satisfying small purchases I made in 2022, and one that has brought immense practical value, was these brilliant cord organizers. I am officially hooked! The struggle with tangled cords from small appliances is real, creating cabinet clutter and making storage frustrating. I immediately applied these organizers to several of my kitchen essentials, including my hand mixer and crock pot, and the transformation has been fantastic. They keep the cords neatly wrapped and securely in place, ensuring easy, tangle-free storage in my kitchen cabinets. No more rummaging through a mess of wires or struggling to pull out an appliance without dragging others along.
A crucial word of warning for anyone considering these: the exact cord organizers I linked are exceptionally sticky and have remained firmly adhered to every appliance I’ve used them on, proving their quality and durability. However, the market is flooded with many similar organizers that, despite looking identical, offer very poor adhesion and will quickly peel off. Therefore, resist the temptation to simply buy the cheapest ones you can find; investing a little more in a quality product like these will save you frustration and ensure your cords stay perfectly organized for the long haul. This small upgrade makes a significant difference in kitchen efficiency and aesthetics.
7. The Indispensable Bissell Spot Carpet Cleaner
Early in 2022, I invested in this Bissell Spot Cleaner, and it has proven to be one of the most invaluable purchases for our home, receiving extensive use throughout the year. If you have any carpeted areas or rugs in your home, this is an absolute must-have tool for maintaining their cleanliness and appearance. It performs exceptionally well at tackling unexpected spills and everyday stains, breathing new life into your carpets without the need for professional services or bulky, full-size carpet cleaners.
One of its most impressive features is its powerful suction, which does a phenomenal job of extracting the water back out of the carpet once it’s been cleaned, significantly reducing drying time and preventing mildew. Furthermore, I particularly appreciate the innovative self-cleaning hose feature, a major improvement over previous models where the hose could become disgustingly gross over time. This Bissell cleaner keeps itself hygienic and ready for the next use. For anyone looking to efficiently manage carpet stains and keep their soft furnishings looking their best, this spot cleaner is a true powerhouse and a worthy investment that delivers consistently impressive results.
7. Exquisite Bedroom Lighting for Ultimate Ambiance
Completing the serene sanctuary that is our primary bedroom, the addition of specific lighting fixtures in 2022 provided the exact finishing touches the space needed. These elegant blush table lamps, placed on our nightstands, cast a warm, inviting glow, creating a soft ambiance perfect for winding down. Their delicate color and sophisticated design perfectly complement our bedroom’s aesthetic, adding a touch of refined elegance. Paired with this stylish floor lamp, strategically positioned in our cozy little reading nook, the room now feels perfectly balanced and exceptionally comfortable. The floor lamp provides focused light for reading, blending functionality with a chic design that enhances the overall decor.
While I acknowledge that these pieces represent a higher investment, their exceptional quality, perfect sizing for our space, and timeless design make them fixtures I anticipate enjoying for many years to come. They are not merely lamps but integral components that enhance the functionality, comfort, and enduring style of our bedroom, truly completing the vision for this personal retreat.
8. The Mighty Desktop Vacuum Cleaner
Without a doubt, this USB charging desktop vacuum claims the title of the best under-$20 item I purchased all year! This mini handheld vacuum is specifically designed for efficiently cleaning dirt, crumbs, and debris from desktops, making it an ideal tool for any home office or workspace. However, I’ve discovered its true calling and absolutely love using it around the kitchen, where it has become an indispensable aid for quick cleanups.
I keep this highly addictive little sucker on the lazy Susan on our kitchen table, ready to spring into action. It’s perfect for swiftly vacuuming up any crumbs left behind on our tablecloth after meals, saving me from having to shake it outside or use a larger, more cumbersome vacuum. Additionally, I use it to quickly suck up crumbs and small dry spills on our countertop before I wipe them down with cleaner, ensuring a truly clean surface. The convenience is unparalleled; I’ve only had to charge mine once since getting it, with the initial charge lasting for over a month of regular use. Trust me, once you start using this compact powerhouse, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it; it’s incredibly effective and surprisingly fun to use!
9. Cherished Hand-Crocheted Stockings
My final favorite item, and perhaps the most special of all, was actually a heartwarming Christmas gift from my youngest daughter. She lovingly hand-crocheted five of these beautiful blue stockings for our family, and I genuinely couldn’t adore them more! These personalized, handmade treasures instantly became cherished heirlooms, adding a unique and sentimental touch to our holiday decor. The care and effort she poured into each stitch truly make them priceless, embodying the spirit of family and tradition.
For those of you who possess a knack for crafts or are looking for a meaningful DIY project, my daughter generously used this specific pattern. It’s a fantastic opportunity to create your own set of bespoke stockings, adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations or crafting thoughtful gifts for loved ones. The pattern is clear and accessible, allowing anyone with an interest in crocheting to replicate these charming designs and create lasting memories.
And with that, our comprehensive review of 2022 on Driven by Decor comes to a close! I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for stopping by the blog throughout the year. Your engagement, comments, and consistent support mean the world to me and continue to inspire the content I create. As we embark on 2023, I’m incredibly excited about the array of new projects, captivating room reveals, invaluable tips, and engaging DIYs we have planned. The year ahead promises even more inspiration to help you love your home even more. If there are any specific topics, renovations, or DIY challenges you’d love to see covered, please don’t hesitate to share your ideas in the comments section below – your input is always valued!
Furthermore, if you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to subscribe to Driven by Decor’s email newsletter to ensure you never miss out on new posts and exciting content. We typically send only 1-2 emails per week, so your inbox won’t be overwhelmed, and you can easily unsubscribe at any time. By subscribing, you’ll not only stay updated on our latest projects and revelations but also gain early access to our favorite new finds, many of which tend to sell out quickly. Don’t miss another moment of decor inspiration – CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TODAY and join our vibrant community of home decor enthusiasts!
Happy New Year everyone!
