Decorating or redecorating your home is a sizeable investment. If you haven’t shopped home furnishings or done any type of renovation work over the past few years, you might be a little bit surprised at what things cost these days.
But, there are things you can do to make each of your decorating dollars go a little further, so you can splurge on that fabulous velvet sofa with the 8-way hand tied construction or the mahogany dining table of your dreams.
Chattanooga dining room - a project we completed in late 2019, just before Covid reared it’s ugly head.
Try to reuse as much as you can. Not exactly ground breaking information, but it really works! These clients already owned the antique French dining set. It’s been in the family for several generations. We had the the caning repaired where needed on the chairs and added new fabric to the seats. The glorious crystal chandelier was existing, and the antique mirror over the console was part of my client’s collection.
Here is the dining room “before”. Same dining set, same chandelier, but the space got a whole new attitude!
Same dining room with the French antique chairs and antique table from client’s collection.
A new rug, contemporary console table with gilt accents and simple beefy lamps take this dining room from old fashioned to fresh and chic!
So take a good luck at the pieces you have and see if you can imagine them in a new location or with a new role. You can still get a whole new look if you make smart choices!
2. Shop vintage. This is quite possibly my most favorite tip. I love vintage. Lamps, art, accessories, furniture, mirrors. There is honestly so much goodness to be found out there and in most cases the prices you pay for the quality you receive makes the whole thing a win/win.
We created this gallery wall in a Chattanooga living room with a mix of vintage finds and newly acquired art pieces. What a unique and fabulous statement it makes. And the brass candleholders on the coffee table. Also vintage.
Entryway of same house in the photo above. This is a 2-for because the little wooden bench is antique AND it was part of the client’s collection. It was made by her grandfather and was the most perfect counterpoint to the modern art!
Same house, same entryway. Vintage bust, vase and candlesticks finish off the modern entryway table.
3. Natural Fiber Rugs Seagrass, jute, sisal - all provide a casual element to a room’s design that is also very easy on the checkbook!
Chattanooga lake house interiors project - master bedroom. A seagrass rugs anchors furnishings of a higher pedigree. (Lots of vintage here as well). I practice what I preach!
Same lake house. Here’s an indoor-outdoor seagrass rug we used in the loft area. Love the casual feel of a natural fiber rug!
4. Dress your windows simply. Ok it’s no secret that I love a luxe drapery at the windows, but there are ways to create chic windows on a budget.
One of my favorite way to create stylish and chic windows is with a simple bamboo shade. You can order them cordless and with liners if you need privacy and light control. It’s the seagrass rug of windows!
From the Southern Living Idea house in Louisville, KY 2021.
Cafe curtains are back and a great way to stretch the window treatment budget. Very little fabric is required and they’re just so charming. Perfect in kitchen, powder room, laundry room, mud room - you name it!
I hope these tips help you get the most out of your next decorating project. Will you try any of them?
Dreaming of creating a special place to come home to at the end of a busy day? We can help! Contact Kim at thegreenroominteriors@gmail.com and tell us how we can help!
