So you’ve moved away from home and landed your first apartment; it’s an exciting time but you aren’t exactly flush with cash. Worried you don’t have the resources to make your new house a home? Never fear because there are plenty of simple, effective and cheap ways to make your casa a show place.
First off it’s all fine and good to get design ideas from magazines and websites but don’t get so wrapped up in what’s fashionable that you forgo surrounding yourself with things that make you feel good. So what if taupe is the hottest color for walls, if you hate it what does it really matter how popular it is? Envision your home with items that bring you joy, as well as the vibe you want to offer to your guests, and then fill in those outlines whenever you can.
And that doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune; be creative in discovering new ways to live on the cheap. Does your Aunt have a groovy retro couch in her basement that you’ve always adored? Be bold and ask her because she’d probably love to get rid of the thing and it will save you a bundle. Or if the sofa is “almost” perfect in style but Ace in design then take it and make due, then save up to recover it in the fabric of your choice. You’d be amazed what a new lease on life a couch can get simply by receiving a new outfit.
Second-hand stores and online ads are also great ways to furnish your place on a budget. Or maybe you prefer to live sparsely while waiting to purchase each perfect item as you can afford it; that doesn’t mean your home needs to be sterile and cold.
Think color and textures for adding style to your home. What colors do you love and how do they make you feel? Once you’ve answered that then incorporate those hues into the rooms where they’re best suited. Mixing and matching textures is another great way to add a little luxury to your new digs, even if the items are small ones like pillows and a throw, don’t be afraid to price out some feel-good items made of brocade, velvet and silk. To just be able to reach out and touch something soft and luxurious-feeling does wonder for the psyche, even while living off of beans and rice.
Also think about what matters to you; do you want pretty dishes to use when entertaining friends? Keep an eye on the ones you love and wait for them to go on clearance, or buy them a piece at a time as you can afford them. Even if you run into financial troubles down the road those pretty dishes will bring you joy and also serve a purpose.
And when decorating don’t forget the walls! If you’re renting you will want to be careful about painting anything but plain white walls can offer a terrific opportunity for embellishments such as framed art. You can start a collection of local artists’ works and also get famous artists’ reprints for a song. But be sure to take the time to frame your items, which will make your home appear much for stable and permanent, instead of like a frat house. In addition, bold framed prints are also a terrific way to draw the eye from that shabby chair you can’t wait to get rid of.
It doesn’t take much to make your house a home, just don’t be afraid to express your uniqueness through your surroundings and soon you’ll have a warm and inviting space that is truly yours. Have fun and happy homemaking!
Author Emma Bell writes for Coupon Croc. Want beautiful prints for a song? Check out this Discount Voucher.