As an experienced interior designer, I’m pleased to share my top simple and economical interior design hacks that will help you improve your home without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a renter looking to personalize your apartment or a homeowner wishing to update your decor, these recommendations can help you create a fashionable and pleasant home that represents your distinct personality.
Start with a plan
Before beginning any interior design job, it’s critical to have a solid plan in mind. Consider your goals for your space and how you want it to feel. Make a mood board by gathering inspiration from magazines, Pinterest, or Instagram to help you imagine your ideal look. This will serve as a road map for your design journey, helping you stay focused on your objectives.
Embrace the Power of Painting
Using paint is one of the most transforming and cost-effective interior design tips. A fresh coat of paint can quickly revitalize a room, making it feel brighter, more expansive, or cozier, depending on the color you select. If you’re hesitant to commit to a bold hue, start with an accent wall or try removable wallpaper for a momentary pop of pattern.
Be Creative with Lighting
Lighting is essential for creating a room’s mood and ambiance. While high-end light fixtures may be appealing, there are numerous low-cost alternatives that can have a significant impact. Consider replacing your current light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs in warm, inviting colors. Install a dimmer switch to create a pleasant environment, or plug-in wall sconces for a stylish, space-saving alternative.
Mix & match textures
Using a range of textures is a simple way to add depth and interest to your space without breaking the bank. Layer plush throw blankets, textured pillows, and comfy rugs to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Experiment with diverse materials, such as wood, metal, and glass, to provide visual interest and keep the eye moving about the area.
Before going shopping, consider repurposing or relocating items from your own home. You might be astonished at how just changing a piece of furniture from one area to another can revitalize it. Consider painting an antique dresser, reupholstering a chair, or framing cherished images or artwork.
Invest on statement pieces
While it’s crucial to stay within budget, investing in a few significant statement items can improve the entire design and feel of your room. Whether it’s a magnificent area rug, a dramatic piece of artwork, or a one-of-a-kind light fixture, select pieces that reflect your distinctive style and leave an impression. Balance up these splurges with more reasonable purchases from thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces.
Bring the outdoors in
Adding plants and greenery to your area is an easy and inexpensive way to bring life and color into your house. Plants not only purify the air, but they also provide a tranquil and relaxing environment. If you don’t have a green thumb, look for low-maintenance plants like succulents, snake plants, or pothos that can grow in a range of environments.
Create a gallery wall.
A gallery wall is an excellent method to express your personality while also adding visual intrigue to a place. Collect frames of all sizes and types, then fill them with a combination of artwork, photographs, and sentimental items. Arrange them on the floor until you find a layout that you like, then transfer the arrangement to the wall with a level and detachable adhesive strips for easy mounting.
Maximize Storage
Maximizing storage is essential for keeping your small area orderly and clutter-free. Look for furniture that can do double duty, such as a storage ottoman or a bed with built-in drawers. Install floating shelves or hang organizers on the back of doors to make better use of vertical space. Get creative with unexpected storage ideas, such as using a ladder as a blanket rack or transforming an old trunk into a coffee table with concealed storage.
Accept the Power of Mirrors
Mirrors are a designer’s hidden weapon for making a place appear bigger and brighter. Hang a huge mirror opposite a window to reflect natural light and create the sense of a larger space. Group smaller mirrors together to form a magnificent focal point, or use a mirrored tray to add a bit of glitz to your coffee table or vanity.
Don’t forget the details.
Sometimes the smallest elements have the greatest impact in a space. Replace generic hardware with something more distinctive and visually appealing, such as vintage-inspired knobs or sleek, modern pulls. Fresh flowers or a fruit bowl on your kitchen counter will add a splash of color. Add comforting accents like plush throw pillows, soft blankets, and scented candles to create a welcoming ambiance.
Embrace Your Personal Style
At the end of the day, your home should reflect your individual personality and style. Don’t be hesitant to mix and match different design components or experiment with strong color combinations. Surround yourself with stuff that make you happy and express your narrative, such as vacation mementos, family heirlooms, or artwork by your favorite local artists.
By incorporating these basic and inexpensive interior design hacks into your house, you’ll be well on your way to creating a space that is both fashionable and distinctive to you. Remember that creating your home is an ongoing process, not a final goal. Take your time, have fun, and enjoy the process of transforming your place into a stunning and welcoming retreat.
I am a design enthusiast that loves writing about the latest trends and style when it comes to commercial and residential interior design. I also love architecture and buildings.
