I think it goes without saying that in this economy, many of us are looking to our homes as sanctuaries. If one's home doesn't invoke respite and relaxation, then changes are in order. But how does one go about transforming a space on a tight budget? I used to be someone who wanted to finish designing a room in one day, but being on a tight budget requires planning, creativity, and patience. Now I've learned to enjoy the entire process.
Creating a living room scheme, via
InStyleHere are some of my money- saving tips based on my experience:
1)
Assess Your SpaceDon't rush into designing your home. Live in it, understand its needs, then formulate a design plan. It saves you money and/ or several return trips to the store. I've also found that what may have worked in your last place may not in your current one.
2)
Seek inspirationI love my magazines, but boy do they up lots of (valuable) square footage! I clip my favorite photos and create a scrapbook filled with inspiring rooms. I also like to add tactile touches such a scrap of ribbon, a died flower petal or leaf, or a button . When hubby and I go take a stroll in the neighborhood I cast furtive glances at other homes via open windows and make a mental list of ideas I can use for our apartment. A less voyeuristic approach is to observe how your friends and family decorate their spaces and glean inspiration from them. I also like to copy French women (who doesn't?)! They hone their tres chic yet effortless style by the latest fashion at high-end department stores and boutiques for inspiration. You can do the same by visiting furniture showrooms and home design boutiques (brick and mortar as well as internet).
Here's an ispiration folder collage from the talented
Holly. You could make one for every room in your home! ;)
3)
Colors and patternsIt's hard to argue with the fact that one of the most cost- effective ways to change a room's mood is through color (read: paint). But what about for those of us who rent? Some landlords won't allow you to repaint over their "handy" work. But you can still inject a mood using accessories, such as pillows and window treatments. Be sure that you understand the science of color: light colors expand a space, dark colors reduce it. Greens and blues are cool and calming, while oranges and yellows are warm and welcoming.
4)
Refurbish and RepurposeMy recent project was updating the craft/ guest room. I have a
Pier1 secretary desk from my grad school days that was no longer safe to use as a work space. But it had lots of storage potential for various supplies and equipment, and the color was perfect. By simply removing the decommissioned flip- down work surface, it now houses my printer, radio, sewing machine (when not in use), and note cards. Check out thrift stores, ads like
Craigslist, and auctions because someone's trash of a furniture could be your treasure!
5)
Shop Discount StoresDesign has certainly become more democratic. While I wouldn't necessarily find a quality sofa at
Target and TJ Maxx, they are awesome for their selection of home accessories. Sometimes the little details are all you need to transform a room.
6)
Seek Expertise and/or a Second OpinionSometimes we just find ourselves in a creative rut, and it pays to get a fresh set of eyes and a second opinion. Turn to a friend, or use an inexpensive professional design service such as
Turquoise and
This Young House. I haven't used the latter (mainly because I'm blessed to have design- savvy friends, both professional and recreational), but portfolios and testimonials are available.
Any other tips for decorating on a budget?
