Imagine having the power to transform a room in your house or apartment with a simple, fast, and impactful makeover that could even fool you into thinking it’s a professionally designed space worthy of being pinned on Pinterest. The excitement is palpable, isn’t it? Well, we’re about to share some tried-and-true techniques, including secrets from the pros and our own experimentations, to give your room that special something. From subtle tweaks to bold statements, we’ll reveal how you can easily elevate your space without breaking a sweat.
Declutter and Spruce Up
To kick-start the process, consider the power of minimalism. By letting go of items that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy, you can instantly refresh your space and create a more inviting atmosphere. Even a brief tidy of everyday essentials can have a profound impact on how you perceive your home. If storage is an issue, combine a decluttering exercise with the addition of new furniture to create functional and aesthetically pleasing storage solutions. Alternatively, explore the art of re-arrangement – by simply shifting the layout of your existing items, you can achieve a completely new look without breaking the bank.
Artwork
There are many ways to add a touch of elegance or whimsy to your home without breaking the bank. One great option is to purchase prints rather than original artwork. These can be just as impressive and unique, but much more affordable. You can find a wide range of prints for sale online, from £5 to £50, or even create your own using a canvas or MDF.For example, we have a fantastic poster by Polish artist Waldemar Swierzy, titled ‘Bear in Tuxedo’, which cost us just £19.50 and now hangs beautifully in our new bathroom (it took some convincing to get Catrin on board!). You can also buy digital prints from Etsy and have them printed online by companies like pics2posters.If you’re feeling creative, why not try creating your own piece of art? With a large canvas or MDF starting at £20-£100, the possibilities are endless. A few bold strokes in a matching or contrasting colour to your decor can make all the difference.It’s not just about buying artwork either – personal prints of your family and loved ones can be incredibly beautiful and meaningful, reminding you of special days together. James has even been allowed a tasteful nude in our living room (a piece of artwork, not a personal print!).If you’re looking to invest in art (I like to think of it as investing rather than buying), the value of art tends to hold up well over time. We’ve included some helpful tips from the Royal Academy and Forbes below.
Indoor Plants
In this household, we’re huge fans of indoor plants – and if you’ve read our previous post on the topic, you’ll know why. Not only do they visually enhance any space, but they also offer numerous health benefits that are hard to ignore. While larger plants can make an immediate impact, they often come with a higher price tag, typically ranging from £100-£150. However, most houseplants have one major advantage: they tend to grow rapidly, allowing you to start with a smaller plant and nurture it into something more impressive over time.Smaller plants may not provide the same instant wow factor as their larger counterparts, but they still pack a significant punch when it comes to improving the ambiance of your home. As humans, we seem naturally inclined to respond positively to natural environments and green spaces, so even small plants can make a noticeable difference.One excellent starting point for new plant enthusiasts is the Monstera Deliciosa. We purchased our own Monstera for around £25 when it was about 2-3 feet tall, and within just a few months, it had grown to an impressive 4 feet in height. With proper care, even smaller plants can thrive and make a big impact on your home’s aesthetic and overall wellbeing.
Pops of Colour
When introducing a pop of colour, don’t be afraid to get creative. Consider an accent piece or series of accessories that contrasts with your existing decor. Alternatively, paint a feature wall in a bold hue that complements the room’s overall aesthetic. If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporate artistic elements, such as hand-painted murals or unique designs, to really make the space stand out. Remember, it’s just paint, so don’t be too worried about making a mistake! In fact, you can always repaint the wall if needed. For added visual interest, place the most important piece of furniture in the room against or near the feature wall, creating a striking focal point. If your room is already neutral, feel free to go bold and expressive with your colour choice. Conversely, if the space has a strong existing colour scheme, look for harmonious complements that will tie everything together nicely.
Vase of Flowers
Transform a space with a dramatic floral display! Positioning a beautiful vase of fresh flowers is an effortless way to create a stunning ambiance. The human brain has an innate affinity for natural elements, so placing flowers in a prominent spot will undoubtedly leave a lasting positive impression.To add depth and luxury to your arrangement without breaking the bank, incorporate foliage like eucalyptus or ferns. Filler plants such as gyp and poms can also enhance the overall aesthetic. For a clean and elegant look, opt for opaque white vases that subtly conceal stems and allow the flowers to take center stage.To ensure your blooms remain fresh and vibrant for an extended period:1. Cut stems at an angle using a sharp knife when placing them in the vase.2. Monitor the water’s clarity; when it becomes cloudy, remove the flowers, thoroughly clean the vase, refill, and dispose of any dead leaves or flower heads.3. Utilize the included flower preservative or purchase one from a florist or online retailer like Amazon.To maintain the health and longevity of your arrangement:* Avoid direct sunlight* Keep them away from fruit and heat sources* Prevent drafts by positioning them safelyIf budgeting for fresh flowers every week proves challenging, consider investing in high-quality artificial blooms. The industry has witnessed significant advancements, with affordable options available at retailers like Ikea and Amazon. Begin with a single arrangement and gradually build up to enjoy year-round flowers without the hassle of frequent replacements.
Mirror
When incorporating mirrors into a room’s design, two key benefits emerge. Firstly, it creates the illusion of increased space, while also serving as a striking focal point. Currently, circular mirrors with thin wooden, metallic, or leather surrounds are extremely trendy. Installing one in your hallway can create an instant ‘wow’ factor and provide guests with the opportunity to check their appearance upon entering – a thoughtful touch that leaves a lasting impression.
Taking it a step further, we’ve created a statement piece in our living room by arranging 9 antique-effect mirrors in a grid pattern. This unique design element has become a conversation starter whenever visitors enter the room and was achieved at a reasonable cost of around £150. While you may not need to invest this amount, standard mirror glass is more affordable when sourced from a reputable glass supplier. You can then find a frame that suits your style at retailers like Ikea, Amazon, or online suppliers such as eframe.
New Piece of Furniture
If budget constraints are holding you back from adding instant impact to your space, think again. You don’t need to break the bank to create a unique and eye-catching piece. Consider taking on a DIY project, like crafting a live edge wood table from affordable slabs of wood starting at £200, depending on the type, complexity, and desired finish. We’re currently working on documenting our own DIY projects, so stay tuned for those in-depth guides.Alternatively, you could opt for an Ikea hack, drawing inspiration from our recent article showcasing high-end design hacks on a budget. If that’s not your style, Ikea has also upped its game with a range of high-quality furniture pieces that won’t dent your wallet too badly. Use our earlier post on ‘Ikea products you don’t need to hack’ as a starting point.The possibilities are endless, and if budget allows, you can even treat yourself to a statement designer piece that truly elevates the ambiance of your room. Just be sure it’s something both beautiful and functional, making it a worthwhile investment in your lifestyle rather than just a luxury purchase.
A Statement Rug
When it comes to statement pieces, few things can rival the impact of a statement rug. Think back to the last time you walked into a room and someone exclaimed over its unique design – that’s what we’re talking about! For us, a faux zebra print rug in our living room is just such a piece. Not only does it elicit comments from visitors, but it’s also soft enough for our 3-year-old to enjoy rolling around on it. Cow print rugs and antique Persian style rugs are other great options that can work well in various designs.When selecting a statement rug, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and opt for something bold. Just be mindful of its dimensions so that it neither overwhelms nor gets lost in the room. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 18 inches between the rug and any walls. Also, try to either get all the furniture on or off the rug (except perhaps a coffee table), as this will help create a sense of balance.What’s great about statement rugs is that they offer a chance to introduce something luxurious or striking into your design without committing to it throughout the entire room. And let’s be honest – sometimes you need a little bit of bravery when it comes to designing your space!
Lighting
One of the most overlooked aspects of interior design is lighting, yet it has the power to completely transform a room. Rather than embarking on a major rewiring project, incorporating tactical lighting solutions like table lamps or floor lamps can make a significant impact. In smaller spaces, illuminating all four corners can create the illusion of greater size. To draw attention to specific features, consider accent lighting that highlights architectural details or decorative elements. Additionally, task lighting is essential for areas where good light is crucial, such as reading in a cozy chair or working at a kitchen counter. LED strip lighting is another accessible option, particularly if you opt for plug-in strips that can be easily installed. In our bedroom, we’ve incorporated recessed headboards with LED strips that provide a dramatic and functional reading light.
Something out of the Ordinary
When considering extreme luxury items, one could opt for the extravagant option, such as the diamond-encrusted rocking horse featured on lists of the world’s most expensive toys. Alternatively, you might prefer to temper your enthusiasm and focus on finding unique objects that still bring a touch of elegance to your scheme. By setting this high-end starting point, you’ll undoubtedly discover items you wouldn’t typically allow yourself to consider. For me, this category encompasses objets d’art – beautiful pieces that inspire admiration. This could include collections of antique cameras, neon signs, or even the nostalgic appeal of a ship in a bottle. Why not turn this into an event and spend a day scouring local car boot sales or flea markets for something that truly catches your eye? The world is indeed your oyster!
Take one thing from this article
When it comes to decorating your home, one crucial takeaway should be to boldly incorporate style and impact without hesitation. While it’s essential to take time to deliberate, our experience suggests that making a dramatic change doesn’t have to break the bank or require extensive renovations. Instead, you can quickly introduce significant visual improvements with minimal investment. As you reflect on this idea, I’d love to hear about any creative endeavors you’ve undertaken in your home that have had a profound impact.
