In our present economy we are all looking for ways to freshen our homes without spending a bundle. Here are a few suggestions from Stone Creek's design consultant Michele Zambie to help get you started.

1. KITCHEN Get rid of clutter! Any appliance you do not use on a daily basis should be stowed away. You can place fresh fruit in a large bowl or basket to add a shot of color. Cut flowers, branches or greens from your yard for an air of freshness, which costs nothing. Paint your pantry door with chalkboard paint from your big box store. It is great for your shopping list, kids chores or a quote of the week. Olive oils and special vinegars can be placed next to the cook top in a low-sided tray. Everything is at you fingertips and looks great too.

2. BATHROOM Placing rolled towels in a large basket will give a spa feel. Replace towel bars with sturdy decorative hooks. Everyone finds them easier to use and the bathroom always looks neat. If you have counter space, fill clear canisters with everyday items such as cotton swabs, soaps, etc. Makeup items can be corralled in a rattan or wood tray. The house wares dept is a great source for trays as the bathroom dept is usually more expensive. Makeup brushes can be put in a clear container with decorative glass pebbles found at a craft store.

3. OFFICE/COMMAND CENTRAL Go through mail on a daily basis. Sort in three piles. Bills to pay, read later, recycle. If you make this a habit you'll never have stacks to go through or a lost bill. All unread magazines should have a basket. If you haven't read them in a month you probably won't. Give them to a friend to enjoy or recycle.

4. ENTRY Most of us enter our homes through a door that connects the garage. If the clutter stops at that point it never has the chance to end up on the kitchen island or dining room table. Add hooks in this area for the dogs leash, backpacks and car keys. A small shelf or basket can hold sunglasses or out going mail. If space allows a bench is great for putting on shoes and a basket under it can house shoes. This is usually a small space so a cheerful paint color would work well here.

Michele adds, "Low cost decorating and de-cluttering will add value to your home. Less clutter in your home reads as more space. Your home looks well cared for and spacious at the same time."