Redecorate on Any Budget
In
this time of belt-tightening, the idea of redecorating your home may
not have occurred to you. In fact, "we can't afford it right now" may
have been the first thought to cross your mind. However, there are many
ways you can update your home's décor without breaking the bank.
Scratch Out Starting from Scratch
What
can you do on a limited budget? Plenty, as it turns out, and it doesn’t
have to be a major production. “Redecorating is a great way to create a
warm and comfortable home while also saving money—because you aren’t
starting from scratch,” says Kathy Wilson, home and garden expert and
editor of TheBudgetDecorator.com. “Many of your favorite items you
already own can be used in your redecorating scheme, put together and
enhanced in new ways.”
Have a Decorating Plan
You
can’t create a budget until you know what you plan to do. Wilson
recommends starting with a decorating plan. “Create a theme, and write
out a plan that fulfills your wants and needs,” she says. “You can’t
create a budget until you know what you want, or you will waste a lot of
money on impulse purchases.”
Shop Around
How
do you know how much to budget for furnishings and décor? “Use your
decorating plan to make a list and get estimated costs,” Wilson says.
“When something appears too costly, look for a less expensive way to
create the same effect for less.”
Now
it’s time to hit the stores. Price what you need and compare those
prices to get your best deal. One more thing: Never go pricing without
that decorating plan. “Even the most experienced decorator can get into
trouble buying things out of budget and inappropriate for the room if
they don’t have a guide to keep them on track,” Wilson notes.
Start with the Big Projects First
By
starting with the bigger items on your list, you can make the biggest
impact in the least amount of time, says Wilson. “Painting the walls or
slip-covering the furniture may be the first step you want to budget
for, and then plan to make more changes as your budget allows over
time,” she says.
Work with Your Retailer
If
your redecorating project involves purchasing new furniture, work with
the retailer to make the most of your budget. Make the sales associate
your partner in redesign. They can help you plan and organize your
purchases over time so that you get the most bang for your buck.
Use an In-Store Designer
If
you can't afford to hire an interior designer for your home décor
project, you may be able to find one at your furniture retailer who can
assist you for no additional charge. Lawrance Furniture, a Southern
California based contemporary home furnishings and accessories store, is
one of many furniture retailers offering in-store consultants.
In-store designers can also help you select items in the store that best fit your budget and design plan.
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