Design Hacks for Families on a Budget

Hello World!  Welcome Friends!  Before we dive into tonight’s post, I just wanted to let you know Make it Pretty Monday will be back next week.  I’ve really been working hard to get the house painted and also spend some quality time with Chloe. But, for now, let’s talk about design hacks.

“Most of us who aren’t interior decorators don’t truly prioritize creating surroundings for ourselves that inspire the kinds of behaviors — say, restfulness, excitement, even generosity — we want to exhibit. We choose the spaces we live in according to practical concerns. We fail to lighten dark rooms or change dull colors on the walls. We neglect the garden. We skimp on art.”

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Eve Fairbanks’ fascinating article in The Washington Post advocates for greater care in home decoration. Design, she notes, affects how we think and feel, but also the way we behave, the way we go about achieving our daily goals, the extent to which we are inspired to be our best selves. The Bible also speaks of “peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest,” stressing the importance of building homes that are tranquil and cozy. How to get around the problem of a small budget, however?  The cost of interior design amounts to between $1800 and $8,800 or more, though these amounts can be considerably higher if you add on furniture or carry out extensive refurbishment. In this post we look into ways you can make your home environment more joyful, productive, and user-friendly, without breaking the bank or having to resort to financing.

Strategic Purchasing

It is important to replace just a couple of items that have come to the end of their lifespan if DIY refurbishment isn’t possible. Rather than buying the items on your list immediately, do so strategically. Go online and pick the exact models you wish to take home, waiting for specific times during the year (such as summer sales or Black Friday) to obtain your desired items at a significantly discounted price. See if you can tack on vouchers to bring prices down even further. Think small items that make a difference: an old entrance table, a broken chair, a shoe cabinet. Imagine how bright and perky your space would look like with one or two small replacements. If refurbishments are necessary to some areas of your home, you don’t need to spend an inordinate amount on crucial work. There are many small renovations for under $5,000 that can make a big difference so don’t be disheartened if your budget extends no further.

Repurpose Existing Décor Items

We can be too quick to throw away things without thinking about whether these items could be of further use. Pinterest is a treasure trove of repurposing ideas. We recently saw a cute idea for reusing empty candle jars. By freezing the jars, cracking the wax off, and glueing elegant looking yet affordable glass door knobs onto the top of the jars, you could have über elegant storage jars for bathroom supplies such as Q-tips, bandaids, or make-up.

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Bring Out the Antiques

Many families have antique pieces that are left in the garage or placed into storage because of the current penchant for modern, minimalistic interiors. Have a good look for antique bronze or metal pieces, which can work beautifully alongside both traditional and modern settings. Eclectic looks are in, and they reflect a homeowner’s personality, style, and experiences. Don’t be shy to display beautiful crockery you obtained when you were traveling, an old lamp or coffee table that displays painstaking work and artistry, or an interesting décor item such as an old compass, world globe, or chandelier. Check out interior design blogs and magazines, and you will find that many stylish homes featured display a blend of rustic and contemporary elements. Show your personality by not being reticent to create your own blend of items.

Painting Works Wonders

One of the best buys you could ever make when you only have a few dollars to spend, is a bucket of paint. It can be very difficult to work or enjoy leisure time when the walls in your home are chipped, cracked, or faded. Have a fun painting day, inviting family and friends to a barbecue after a couple of hours painting the interiors. Opt for classic colors that don’t follow this season’s trend. Think cream, beige, and other neutral tones that you won’t have to repaint too quickly.

Designing beautiful, affordable interiors take research and planning more than anything else. Your home décor has to mean something to you; after all, your home is your safe haven after a hard day’s work, as well as the place in which to connect with your family. Concentrate on important changes such as painting, replacing furniture that cannot be rescued, and looking for ways to display treasures you may have in storage. Finally, visit markets, garage sales, and antique fairs to purchase an item occasionally; small touches can make a big difference, add color to your home, or change the ambience from blah to brilliant.

Click the links below for any posts you may have missed!

Roof Repair for your Roof Leak

Tips for Reducing Energy in Ice Machines

Creating a Quaint Breakfast Nook

5 Things to Address when Renovating a Kitchen

Powder Room Update & Master Bedroom Paint

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