Here are some tips and solutions for home decor at low-cost prices.
1. DETAILS ALWAYS!
Always think about the details that can make the big difference. Sometimes, instead of changing all the kitchen furniture, just change the knobs for modern or creative ones. Stores like Zara Home or IKEA are great places to find low-cost original knobs.
2. ANTIQUES OR ALMOST
Second-hand parts markets, antique stores, flea markets, are excellent for finding those pieces that can make a difference in the decoration of a home. Antique markets or second-hand stores can, if well researched, be sources of furniture that for others is “old” but that for you could be of great inspiration and even great value. You can find in these places, including antique stores, from antique chandeliers that just need a little work to be recovered, to vintage tables that complemented, for example, with some IKEA design chairs will make a great shine. All this at a very affordable price.
Tip: when you go to an antiques fair, you should never go first thing in the morning, as prices are higher; and above all, don’t be shy about haggling over prices!
3. DON’T OVERLOOK THE “TRASH” OF OTHERS
Nowadays, some items are thrown in the trash, especially in the home of parents and grandparents, such as some items from the 70s and 60s, like some colorful designer chairs, tupperware or carpets, which are real finds and sometimes exist even replicas that are sold at prohibitive prices because they have gone or are going retro instead of bad taste. Don’t be ashamed to ask for one or another piece that for some may not have any value, or be considered rubbish, but that in your house, mixed with some modernity, will be a source of great praise, even from a professional decorator.
Tip: research the garage of the grandparents and parents, and anything that is no longer used or is of no value to them, as it could be something that could be used well for your new home. As well as helping to recycle, they will help others to get rid of junk.
4. SEARCH CITY WAREHOUSES
All cities have a warehouse for furniture and other items that the inhabitants ask the council to remove from their homes, particularly when they are replaced by others. Usually, this warehouse is open to the public, and they can visit it and collect furniture and pieces they deem suitable for personal use.
Tip: call the department responsible for waste in the city in advance and ask when and how you can go and have a look at the furniture and items collected.
5. IKEA, IKEA, IKEA
Always go to IKEA in the morning because the later it is, the warehouse shelves start to empty, only being replaced the next day.
6. RECYCLE
Before thinking about replacing one piece of furniture with another, always think if it is not possible to recycle it. For example, if the living room table looks stale or unsightly, painting it in a bold color can bring the dreary table to life for just a few changes of paint and sandpaper; if the bed in the bedroom doesn’t look very modern, they can cover the headboard with fabric, and add some pillows in the same shades.
7. BUY VERSATILE PARTS
Before buying any part, think about its versatility. The kitchen table can be used as a garden table if necessary; for that it should be light. The chairs in the living room can be the same as those in the kitchen, if you need to add a few more places at the table. Instead of 2 sofas, opt for a sofa and chairs that you can use in other rooms in the house, if necessary.
8. COLORING WALLS, YES!
One of the most affordable ways to change the decor of a house or room is to change the paint on the walls. Opt for timeless colors, which don’t always have to go through boring white refrigerator.
9. ART FOR LESS MONEY
If you don’t have money for art, opt for creativity. Antiques fairs can be great for finding older paintings, which the frames, or even the image, can be taken advantage of. Replacing the inside of the old frame with an old map or even a black and white image that can be printed at any copy center, or even an interesting fabric.
10. COVER COULD BE THE SOLUTION
Sometimes a new cover on an old sofa can be a great decorative solution. A new sofa cover, and new pillows will make the living room look renewed at a low cost.
