*Guest post by Salvatore Presti
Believe it or not, designing an elegant and cozy living space that looks fit for Pinterest doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg.
In fact, it’s pretty simple (and fun) to turn your home into a warm and inviting retreat without breaking the bank–it just takes a little imagination and some thought. Let’s take a look at five low-cost strategies to elevate your living space so that both you and your guests will feel at home with a touch of luxury.
Upgrade Flooring with Laminate
Replacing the flooring in your home is one of the most subtle yet impactful
improvements you can make. Although premium tiles or hardwood flooring can be
pricey, durable laminate flooring provides an affordable substitute that looks just as
good for a fraction of the price.
In addition to being long-lasting and super easy to install, laminate flooring is available in a range of different styles and colors to match your tastes and the overall aesthetic you’re going for.
Embrace the Power of Lighting
Lighting has a huge influence on a room’s atmosphere. To add a touch of sophistication, add a statement floor lamp or opt for warm LED bulbs to create a warmer and more comforting ambiance.
You can use dimmer switches or smart lights to have full control over your lighting and set different moods throughout the day. Candles and string lights are another fun way to set the mood. Finally, remember to also take advantage of mirrors and big windows to make the most of your natural lighting to make your rooms feel brighter and more open during the day.
Get Creative with Wall Décor
Good news–you actually don’t need to spend a fortune on pricey art pieces to look like you know what you’re doing when it comes to home decorating.
You can use cheaper frames from thrift stores or make your own frames out of repurposed materials to create a gallery wall filled with printed artwork and photographs you love, turning your house into a home. Removable wallpaper and wall decals are some other excellent ways to add some texture and color to the space without having to make any long-term changes–a perfect, cost-effective option for renters.
Upgrade Your Textiles
You can give your living room a quick and simple makeover by replacing your worn-out area rugs, throw cushions, and curtains with fresh ones.
Learn where to spend and where to save—you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on scatter cushions, for example. Big ticket items like your sofa or even a high-quality blanket are okay to spend on, but smaller décor pieces can be bought second-hand or at cheaper stores. Choose fabrics and designs to add texture and visual interest to your room and make everything feel brand new (even if it’s only new to you!).
Re-purpose and Refurbish Furniture
Finally, don’t give up on old furniture that’s been handed down or lurking in your living room for what feels like an eternity.
Flipping or simply re-purposing older pieces is a great way to change things up without having to spend a cent. Move that old armchair to your bedroom and toss a throw blanket over it, and viola–you’ll have a whole new statement piece.
Use your imagination, and you might be surprised that you are a decorator.
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