How about today I give you some simple hacks for giving your space a more custom, expensive look without breaking the budget?
I’m going to share my five favorite tips with you that I’ve used time and time again to make any room feel a little bit “extra”.
Here goes:
Grosgrain ribbon - I can’t tell you how many times I’ve used Grosgrain ribbon to add some punch to very simple design elements.
Bonus: Grosgrain ribbon can be found at craft stores - even Walmart has it. The cost is minimal, usually about $3 per roll.
Here’s what grosgrain ribbon can do for you!
See that little green stripe on the drapes that separates the blue velvet from the white linen? Well, that’s the just a band of grosgrain ribbon in the freshest shade of green that makes those curtains extra fabulous.
Yep, that’s more grosgrain ribbon , this time in red, to add a little extra detail and color to this custom shower curtain and valance.
Here’s a plain cotton pillow that’s been accented with white ribbon trim. I love that it’s so simple in design but it stands out as a bold accent.
The image above is from Pottery Barn, but there’s no reason you can’t add simple grosgrain ribbon to a plain lampshade yourself. All it takes is a roll of your favorite color grosgrain ribbon and a hot glue gun. Tip: Ribbon is easiest to apply on a drum shade. Tapered shades are a little more challenging.
And speaking of lampshades, that’s my next tip.
Update your lampshades. Lampshades are becoming important design elements unto themselves, and I’m loving the unexpected hit of color and pattern a fun shade like the one below brings to a space.
Here’s a lampshade I had custom made for a recent project. I loooove it paired with the vintage alabaster lamp. And it brings a little life to an understated corner. Side note: I cannot wait to share this project with you! Lots more to come on this one!
Honestly - just a clean, updated lampshade will do wonders for your lamps and your room in general - and it’s an absolute must when incorporating vintage lamps! Black shades are particularly chic!
Images above from a room I decorated for The Junior League of Chattanooga Showhouse a few years ago called “Young Lady’s Retreat” featuring a vintage pineapple lamp updated with a tailored black lampshade.
Paint your trim the same color as your walls. I have to admit - this is a tough one for some people because trim is supposed to some shade of white, right?!?!? Wrong! It’s perfectly acceptable and so so lovely to paint out your trim in a color! Paint the walls in flat or eggshell finish and paint the trim in satin or semi-gloss (in the same color as your walls - or a shade or two darker or lighter). Not only does this method make your room look more expensive, but those baseboards will be much easier to maintain!
Art - step away from the mass produced stuff!! If purchasing an original piece from a favorite artist is outside of your budget, you can always frame children’s art. I just did this in a client’s house and it turned out so great- even better than expected! Children’s art adds lots of color and it offers a true emotional connection to the art.
Or you could have a favorite photograph framed. A photo from a favorite vacation would be perfect - every time you see it, you would be transported that time and place again - even if just for a moment!
My absolute favorite way to source original or unique art on a budget is to visit local antique malls. You just never know what will turn up!
I found this fine art original portrait at a local antique mall for a song - the gorgeous custom frame included! All I had to do was decide on which wall to place it!
Something old. It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of recycling vintage decor. Not only does it add character, it makes your home feel more personal and collected. And isn’t interesting far better than just “coordinated”?
In my living room above, nearly everything is vintage, including some of the furniture! The beauty of this is that I’ll never walk into someone else’s home and see the same pieces.
If you’re interested in adding vintage design elements, you can start with something as small as a vase, planter, candlesticks or even vintage books. Before you know it, you’ll be addicted to the thrill of the hunt!
What do you think? Would you try any of these simple tips in your own home?
The Green Room Interiors is accepting new clients for late summer/fall of 2019. Call Kim today to set up your consultation at 423.653.3186 or email thegreenroominteriors@gmail.com
