1. Three is the Magic Number: A triptych will instantly up any room’s wow
factor. The trio of paneled art, which has been rising in popularity in recent
years, can set you back a pretty penny. But you can make your own! Rather than
commission a custom piece. Simply download free art from the web, print
it on an extra large image at a local
printer, and cut the image into three parts to fit into Ikea frames, or visit a
site such as art.com to find reasonably priced options.
2. Create an Illusion: The bigger the area rug, the bigger the room
will feel. The neutral palette, mirrors behind the sofa, and giant rug work
together to make the small room appear bigger (and better!). Fasten together several smaller rugs to
expand a cramped space.
3. Less is More: Rather than jamming shelves full of
knickknacks, opt for a minimalist look: Several books stand upright along with
tall vases that fill the space without overcrowding it. She also added objects
of various height and color to give the bookcase personality. Turning wasted,
unused space into a functional space, such as this reading nook that can be
enjoyed by many by simply adding a chair. Steal this look with clusters of tall, affordable vases.
4. Go Bold or Go Home: Every room needs a focal point. If you don't
already have one, center the room using eye-catching wall art. To cut costs, you
can create your own – such as painting three giant canvases, saving hundreds or
even thousands of dollars. The key is to
hang the panels so that they appear as one oversized piece for the greatest
effect.
5. Flair for Drama: Banish those boring boudoirs with a simple
trick: Paint one wall a dark color or cover it with grass cloth. The textured
accent wall behind the bed adds warmth to the room and gives it a polished
look. Redoing only one wall is perfect for a budget makeover, because you’ll save
a ton of money (and time). Wallpaper can
quickly add up, but check out these finds for a fraction of
the cost. And when you're done, discover surprising ways to decorate with leftover wallpaper.
6. Natural Wonder: If you are lucky enough to
have a home that bathes in sunlight and has beautifully natural bones, then let
those elements be the star. Stick with neutral colors to let the home’s best
asset — natural light — shine. To prevent the room from becoming boring, she
threw in one zing by way of a chevron pillow. The trendy zigzag adds just the
right graphic touch. Find your favorite budget-friendly pattern
on Etsy.
7. Elements of Surprise: Don’t be afraid to add “unexpected touches”
when styling your home. Here you have a
dramatic headboard created with with inexpensive Ikea desktops propped against
the wall. The headboard’s dark hue really pops against the light wall. For
another decorating twist, she rotated pillow shams to show off diamonds instead
of squares. Fashion your own headboard with these Ikea desks.
8.
Room with a View: Don’t be afraid to put window treatments around a
breathtaking view. Just avoid bright colors and frame the view with neutral
curtains so the eye is drawn toward the windows. And if you face the “problem”
of too much space, steal this page from her playbook: Buy two wooden dining
room tables and cut the legs to make the table cocktail height. “Pushing them
together fills up the space and gives the room instant ... more . To construct your own cocktail table from a
dining room table shop local thrift stores and snag a great value. Or, head to your neighborhood super store.
9. Eclectic Mix: Decorate rooms with natural palettes, adding
pops of color and texture with accessories. Her favorite color schemes
incorporate shades of white, gray, and beige. She also likes to mix and match
design from different eras, such as the two white chairs. The Ming-style chair
in the left corner (purchased from Craigslist.org) “makes the whole room feel less cookie
cutter but painting it white keeps it in the palette." If
your city doesn’t have a Craigslist, search eBay.com to find eclectic pieces to add to
your own mix.
For even more design tips and guidance, follow DesignLuxe. Feel free to contact us at anytime for a consultation or design concept appointment. We love working with our fans.
