It’s the time of year where the thoughts of homeowners turn to
their interiors. Longer days make it easier to give your home a good spring
clean, and the brighter sunlight pouring through the windows is highlighting
all of those areas where your décor is looking shabby and your interiors are in
need of an update. While you may be keen to make some changes though,
your budget might not be so enthusiastic! If
you have more dash than cash and want to update your home on a tight budget then
here are a few key hints and tips:
Personalize Where You Can
Interior-savvy homeowners often avoid buying items from popular
generic home stores because they don’t want a house that looks like everyone
else’s. Whilst this is a valid concern, for those on a budget, these stores
really do provide some fantastic and affordable pieces. The key to
incorporating these into your home with style is to get creative and commit to some crafty personalization.
Buying a plain white shower curtain will cost less than $15, for
example, but you can make it look considerably more expensive, and tie it into
your existing bathroom décor by trimming it with a deep fabric hem in a
gorgeous on-trend fabric. Similarly, you can buy scatter cushions for your bed
or sofa in plain bold colored fabrics and then embellish them with sequins,
lace or even add your initials in fun felt or velour to really give your
accessories that personal touch. Once you start personalization the
possibilities are endless: add a ribbon border along the bottom of your
lampshades and add a trim and homemade tiebacks to your curtains.
Make a Change
Sometimes we become so used to the way our homes look that we
don’t consider the impact a different furniture formation could
have on the space. Take a step back and look objectively at all of the
furniture you currently have in your home. Is it working as hard as it could
be? Do you have interesting pieces in your spare room, where nobody sees them,
that would be used and seen more elsewhere? Reconfiguring your rooms can make
them look completely different without having to spend a penny. You could also
repurpose and paint worn out furniture and other décor to make it look and feel
as good as new.
Add a Lick of Paint
You will be amazed at the impact a fresh coat of paint can have on a room,
particularly if you choose a bold and attention grabbing color. If you opt for
light or pastel shades then paint the whole room and you’ll be amazed by how
much lighter and brighter it appears. If you prefer vibrant primary colors then
painting the whole room may be overpowering. Instead, opt to paint just one
feature wall: for the best impact choose the wall that either your sofa or
another key focal point is placed upon so that you can ensure the color will
draw the eye. For the color shy you can achieve a similar affect using new bold
colored accessories in the room instead. Just ensure that the color you choose
is vibrant and contrasts with your existing décor in a complimentary way.
Don’t Scrimp on Everything
No matter what your budgetary constraints, there are some things
that you simply shouldn't scrimp on when it comes to updating your property.
Don’t try to complete difficult technical jobs, such as wiring or anything else
electrical, yourself: It is often cheaper and less risky to your health to
simply bring a fully qualified expert in to
complete the job. You should also never scrimp on your home and contents
insurance when your finances are tight: if you are burgled or the victim of a
natural disaster then this is the time of your life then you would be least
able to afford to replace all of your possessions.
Finally, don’t be afraid to buy or accept second hand furniture
from friends and family. The quality of your furniture is important and,
ultimately, you will want to have one piece of good quality
furniture in every room of your home. By accepting second hand
pieces you will be in a better position to save and buy new furniture the next
time you come to decorate your home.
"Contributed by Jenni Ollerton"
