Beans Mauve

Whether you're thinking of selling your home, or just looking to make some updates, if you're home is still stuck in the 80's, it's time to make some changes. We're not talking about major design alterations; maybe a new coat of paint, some updated lighting fixtures and new flooring here and there.

If you're not sure of the age of your home, but the design touches look a little dated, take a walk down memory lane with some of these typical 80's style decorating characteristics.

You'll know your home is stuck in the 80's when:

- Your finished rec room looks like a nite club, with floor to ceiling mirrors, neon lights, wall-to-wall carpeting and a bean bag chair.

- Your rooms are painted in any of the following colors: hunter green, teal, peach, salmon or a mix of blues, grays and mauves.

- All the fixtures are made from brass and etched glass, including the gaudy dining room chandelier with sparkling beveled glass.

- Your track lighting looks like pop cans with big eyeballs popping out of them.

- Your vinyl floors are sporting a floral or marble print. Today's flooring styles include ceramic tiles, slate, cork or hardwood.

- Your walls are covered with yellowed, peeling wallpaper. Do yourself a favor and replace with paint or a natural fiber such as bamboo.

- Your bathroom has a brightly colored toilet, sink and tub. If you can't afford to replace them all, have the tub repainted and get a new toilet and modern sink.

- The taps in your bathroom are made from solid brass and your plumbing lines are constructed from copper pipe.

- The laminate counter in your kitchen has patterns and colors you've never seen combined before.

- You have older solid-wood cabinets with dark or fading stain. If you can't afford to replace them, give them a fresh coat of paint and add nickel coated knobs and pulls.

- Your flowered drapes are full of frills and ruffled valances.

- Your family room and kitchen are separated by a wood railing.

- You have a wood fireplace with a brick hearth.