If you have an Ugly House, you’re probably not alone.  And I’m not going to pussy-foot around the issue- sometimes someone has an ugly house because that’s how they bought it (and maybe they paid less for the privilege of living in a hideous home), and sometimes a house is unsightly because the homeowner has bad taste.  And if that’s you, you may not even be aware that others don’t appreciate your design choices.  So, how can we fix this situation so that your house is beautiful both to you and to your family members and guests?  Here are some quick ways to evaluate whether you have an ugly home and make instant changes.

The first thing to do is to listen to what others are telling you.  If you spouse and/or children are constantly mentioning your revolting couch, your dreadful armchair or your nasty dining room table, TAKE THE HINT.  And make sure to listen even if they’re not as blunt as I am.

Next, approach your house objectively.  What are the things that bother you the most?  Can a coat of paint help the situation?  Can removing the unattractive items fix your space?  Your home doesn’t need to transform from the ugly duckling to a swan overnight.  Changing one thing at a time will enable you to enjoy the novelty of each new addition, to moderate your budget accordingly, and to make well-thought-out decisions that will truly help.

If it’s your friend or relative who has an ugly house, be gentle.  Make suggestions of ways that you think your friend can improve their space without sidestepping the issue entirely.  Also, consider whether your friend will heed your advice.  While he or she may not be willing to part with a hideous African sculpture, you may be able to separate him from a tattered La-Z-Boy.

And, of course, another way to inform your friend that his house is ugly is to kindly suggest some helpful design articles or blogs that you’ve come across recently (including yours truly, of course!).   Even one useful suggestion can go a long way.

Don’t forget to follow me on twitter @decorexpert and Facebook at Sari Holtz, and tell your friends- my daily tips may provide just the inspiration that your friend needs to overcome his ugly house!