Decorating ideas on a budget

There are many ways to make your home, apartment or room a reflection of you without spending a lot. Try one of these ideas to get you started and see how creative you can be!









1) Wall decor.  If you need great color or wall detail but don't want to paint, create frames on your wall with inexpensive molding. Hang mirrors, posters or other elements inside to create a focal point. For $30 this plain wall was transformed into an architectural element that added detail to a small living room.

2) Furniture. Who says everything has to match? You can use the inherited chair and the pieces you've picked up to create a great space. Use the same color pillows or fabrics to tie them together. 

3) Dining.  You may not have the budget for a dining room set.  Purchase stacking plastic chairs - spray them black as in this photo -  add a cute bistro table and voila, you have an inexpensive and functional dining that can be moved outdoors when you are ready to buy a permanent one.  

















4) Paint.  The simplest way to change a space is with paint. Whether it's to update an entire room as this yellow striped bath - adding color, height and an updated style to a very old bathroom - or simply refresh an old table, dresser or other piece of furniture, a coat of paint will make a huge difference to a space.  Often a bold monochromatic color on walls, furniture and fabrics makes a small space look larger.

5) Windows.  Curtains are a great way to dress up a window but try using sheets, tablecloths and even table runners - as shown left to right - for a quick and inexpensive treatment.