9 Tips for Saving on Interior Redesign

Creating an interior space, whether it involves intricate design or just basic decoration, can often become a costly endeavor, especially when aiming for elements that convey a sense of sophistication, grace, or extravagance. While this is an undeniable truth, it shouldn’t deter you. Several strategies exist to achieve the ambiance and atmosphere you desire without overspending.

I’ll provide you with some advice that can help you stay within your budget. Many of these suggestions revolve around harnessing your creativity with items you may already own, or alternatively, cleverly combining items to serve multiple purposes.

1. Plan and Budget

Start by setting a budget for your redesign project. Knowing how much you can spend will guide your choices and prevent overspending.

2. Prioritize

Identify the most important areas or items that need a makeover. Focus your budget on these key areas rather than trying to redo everything at once.

3. DIY Projects

Consider tackling some of the projects yourself. Painting walls, assembling furniture, and minor repairs can save you a significant amount of money.

4. Repurpose and Upcycle

Get creative with what you already have.

• Repaint old furniture. Following this approach, you can rejuvenate the pieces, giving them a fresh and sleek appearance. You have the option to aim for an elegant, glossy finish, or you could opt for a more industrial aesthetic with oak tones, or even pursue a thoroughly modern style with various shades of white
• Reupholster furniture. Taking this approach will significantly alter the look and ambiance of a piece, thus making a valuable contribution to the overall aesthetic of the room. For instance, a sofa set that previously exuded a formal aura due to its solid, neutral color can undergo a remarkable transformation, adopting a shabby-chic appeal when adorned with floral prints or shades from the pink color palette.
• Repurpose items for new use. There are plenty of items in every household that have the potential to be repurposed for decorative and/or practical uses. Keep an eye out for objects that can be creatively transformed into decor with spray paints or acrylic paints. Apply some artistic flair to items such as glass bottles from wine or other beverages, and you can effortlessly craft charming decorations without incurring any additional expenses.
• New handles or knobs. Install new handles to your furniture to eliminate outdated or worn-out aesthetics. You can even take it a step further by installing uniform handles or knobs that match across all the pieces within the room.
• Building it up or cutting it down — Whether you’re expanding or simplifying, this applies to items that are either oddly small or appear incomplete, as well as those that are overly intricate. For complex pieces, consider disassembling them to form new standalone elements that can be distributed throughout the space. Conversely, seemingly incomplete pieces provide an excellent foundation for further enhancements. In the case of the former, this offers the opportunity to generate additional storage or functional areas. 💡

5. Use What You Have

Reorganize and rearrange your existing furniture and decor to give your space a fresh look without spending a dime. Sometimes, all it takes is a thoughtful rearrangement of your existing pieces to create a new and inviting atmosphere. Experiment with different furniture layouts, reposition artwork, or swap decor items between rooms. This not only breathes new life into your space but also allows you to appreciate and utilize your belongings in novel ways.

6. Buy Multifunctional Furniture

Invest in furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as a sofa bed or a coffee table with storage. These versatile pieces are not only functional but also space-saving. For instance, a coffee table with built-in storage compartments helps you keep clutter at bay by providing a convenient place to stow away items like magazines, remote controls, or board games. This dual functionality not only maximizes your living space but also promotes a clean, organized, and aesthetically pleasing environment

7. Swap or Borrow

If you have friends or family with similar tastes, consider swapping or borrowing items for a temporary change.

8. Give your walls a face-lift

A fresh coat of paint on walls or furniture can transform a room inexpensively. Stick to neutral colors for a timeless look.

9. Accessorize differently

Instead of buying new furniture, update your space with new throw pillows, curtains, rugs, or artwork. These smaller changes can have a significant impact on the overall aesthetics and ambiance of a room. For example, swapping out throw pillows with vibrant colors or patterns can inject new energy into a space, while changing curtains to let in more natural light can create a brighter, more inviting atmosphere. Additionally, a carefully chosen rug can define and anchor different areas within a room, while artwork can serve as a focal point that adds personality and character to your space. These modifications allow you to refresh your home’s style without the expense and effort of purchasing entirely new furniture.

Bonus Tip:

• Minimalism: Embrace a minimalist approach to decorating. I urge you not to invest in items that won’t serve a practical purpose in your daily life. Opt for items that truly enhance your everyday functionality, avoiding those that only add unnecessary bulk and clutter, as this can negatively impact any living space. A clutter-free space with fewer items can be elegant and cost-effective.

| Enough is better than too much. (Dutch Proverb)

In closing, I recommend considering a one-time consultation with an Interior Designer if you’re unsure about your design decisions. They can provide valuable guidance without a long-term commitment.