Simple Ways to Decorate Boldly Without Denting Your Wallet
Want to give your home and rooms a new look without emptying your pockets? These super simple tricks deliver major results for a minor investment.
Repeat Yourself
One is nice, two is better, but for maximum impact, three is the magic number. If you’re skeptical, take a look at the pages of a decorating magazine or catalog. You will be certain to see trios of identical stools, vases and other items. The triad seems to be the point at which a group of objects turns into a significant statement.
Try a Tray
It’s hard to overstate the usefulness of a tray. Place one on a coffee table to corral a group of decorative objects, or on an ottoman to transform it into a cocktail table. Do not ever forget the tray’s main purpose, which is serving food and drinks. Look at discount home stores for great deals on wood, leather, brightly hued plastic and fabric-covered versions. Or browse thrift shops and flea markets for enticing bargains with quirky vintage charm.
Supersize It
Adding an oversize accessory requires some confidence, but it frequently ends up making the room. There’s something so playful about the contrast of a large-scale clock or lamp set against its more diminutive cohorts. You often can find big pieces at big discounts in the clearance section of department and housewares stores, since lots of people think twice about investing in, say, an enormous ginger jar or timepiece.
Get Busy
Bold patterns are a surefire way to energize a space. And dollar for dollar, a jazzy bedspread or area rug can do more to change up a room than virtually any other accessory. Small prints are sweet, but for maximum drama, choose a design that’s medium or large in scale. Keep in mind that mixing prints can be tricky, so play it safe and stick to one big idea.
Dress Up the Living Room
Dress up windows with easy-to-make curtains. Sew multiple pairs of ribbons to one end of a twin-size flat sheet. Use the ribbons to tie each panel to the curtain rod. Add beauty to any room with flowers from the garden. Now is the time to use a variety of flower vases to make nice bouquets.
Dress Up the Bathroom, Too
Install inexpensive photo ledges on which to create interesting displays. Vintage mirrors and dishes lend the room a touch of granny chic. Save money by making, and not buying, billowy fabric shades. They require minimal sewing skills.