decorating on a budget
It’s easy to imagine what you would do with thousands of dollars to decorate the room of your dreams.
But if you have a limited budget and big aspirations, there are so many ways you can make your space feel aesthetic, beautiful and yours.
#1: Change your lighting!
A super easy (and relatively cheap) way to freshen up your space is to do a lighting overhaul. Switch it up from harsh, white light to warm and diffused light.
Those colour changing LED strips are super popular right now and they can really make your space feel transformed.
Just must sure that you use them as backlighting or under-lighting, and that the actual strip lights aren’t visible.
Like this!
Not like this!
Buy some lamps and unique lighting pieces to spread out around your place.
I love it when I see people lean towards really unusual lamps, I think it gives your space so much character!
There are a plethora of options available in thrift shops, on Facebook Marketplace and through thrifting instagram accounts. Take your time, browse and find some lighting options that feel right for you!
Two of my favourites thrifting accounts for home decor are Kitsch Goods and Alma Home Vintage.
#2: buy secondhand!
One of the easiest ways to save money is to buy secondhand furniture.
There are so many good options available, ranging from brick and mortars to online marketplaces.
Almost all of the furniture in my apartment is thrifted or second-hand! It makes me feel like my place is truly unique and feels carefully curated by me.
All it takes is patience and a clear idea if what you’re looking for. Once you start looking I promise you will stumble upon the right piece soon enough.
You can easily make a few small changes to make your thrifted furniture feel fresh or more like you.
Painting, or adding painted details is an artful way to cover imperfections or just give the piece a facelift.
I recommend using chalk paint, it’s made for furniture so you don’t need to use a primer first and you can choose from a wide range of colours. I buy mine at Home Depot.
Switching out the knobs or doors is also a great way to change up a thrifted (or even just a tired) piece of furniture.
#3: don’t forget rugs and cushions!
It’s easy to take a simple room and make it stand out with a few simple touches.
Save money on furniture and switch up your room by adding some pillows and a cute throw instead.
Just choose a colour palette and roll with it!
Add interest to an otherwise boring space with a new rug or runner.
This Moroccan style runner brings life to a bare entranceway.
#4: wallpaper wallpaper wallpaper!
It’s a new trend that’s sweeping the nation and I’m here for it.
Create visual interest in your space by adding a wallpapered wall. They’re easy to apply and renter-friendly.
It’s a pretty cheap way to make your space feel unique and fresh and there are so many options to choose from!
I recommend only papering a single wall and choosing a room that is small and uncluttered.
However, I wouldn’t recommend papering a wall you have to stare at all the time like in your living room or home office space, because you will probably get tired of it sooner rather than later.
Wallpaper works super well in small bathrooms and as accent walls.
Love the idea of wallpaper but don’t want to commit? Paper a canvas or wooden board and frame it instead!
#5: become a plant parent!
I probably don’t need to tell you twice, but adding plants to your space not only adds warmth and a sense of calm, but it’s also a super easy way to decorate without breaking the bank.
Make sure you’re choosing plants that are right for your space.
There’s a ton of internet resources available to find the right fit for your level of light and climate. As well as apps that will tell you what the problem is with any plants that aren’t doing too hot.
My favourite plant store in Vancouver is The Bloom Room.
They have a beautiful selection of plants from beginner to advanced plant parent and are super knowledgeable and friendly.
If you don’t feel like you can handle the responsibility of being a plant mom or dad, then dried plants are a really great second option.
Botanicals like pampas grass and palm leaves are beautiful in vases both on countertops and on the ground.
Dried flowers and plants are super trendy right now and you can find them at many florists or home goods boutiques, sometimes dyed into pastels or bright colours.
If you love dried flowers, chances are you’re already embracing the boho aesthetic, and they’re perfect for those desert vibes.
To lean away from bohemian look pair your dried botanicals with live plants & bright colours.
