Decorating on a budget can mean you’re missing out on the many benefits of great apartment decor. But, it doesn’t have to mean working with what you have. In fact, it can mean making changes that will help you save money while creating a beautiful space that looks great.
Let the light in through windows: Most apartment decorating schemes fail because of the lack of lighting coming into a room. The best way to fix this problem is by hanging up some beautiful pendant light or some decent floor lamps so you have light coming into your entryway. However, don’t forget about the storage shelves: You need storage in the entryway, especially since most of us never take anything out of the storage room!
Wallpapering can make a big difference: Just like floor lamps, painting the walls in your apartment will add a nice touch. Paint the walls in neutral colors. You’ll want to choose a paint color that will match your furniture, appliances and cabinets. If you have dark cabinets, maybe go with a lighter wall color or use shadow boxes to give a little pop to the walls. Remember to choose a paint color that will match your other decor, like wood trim and window coverings. Your goal is to create a feeling of home because you aren’t really renting a storage unit!
Use natural light to enhance your space: When you decorate your apartment, don’t forget about using natural lighting. You can install a ceiling fixture to get the most natural light possible. You can also install a skylight to put in extra light. This will help make your apartment feel much more spacious.
Use kitchen windows to their maximum advantage: Since your apartment is not a rental property, you don’t have to pay for costly window coverings. All you have to do is install strong glass accents on all of your windows and you’ll instantly be able to use light from the kitchen whenever you need it. That’s right, you can use your kitchen windows to help you decorate your apartment! Remember to look into replacement shade cloths if you get tired of seeing the same old shade over again in the grocery store.
Make the most of your natural light by using window treatments that have a natural feel to them. Window curtains are a great way to incorporate visual accents without paying for expensive curtains or sheers. Look for curtains with prints that are printed on one side and plain on the other.
Don’t forget the storage space below your apartment windows. If you’re not using storage, chances are that you don’t have a lot of space. Why not add some storage onto the walls? Throw pillows can make excellent storage items, and they also offer the opportunity to place pretty cushions on the floors. When you decorate an apartment with throw pillows, remember that you get what you pay for so don’t go overboard.
Add some lighting to the walls above and along the perimeter of your living room area. Remember that you want to bring the light inside so purchase lights with low voltage bulbs. If you have a larger entryway area, then a chandelier might do the trick. Otherwise, you can always install wall fixtures such as pendant lights. You can even keep your walls in wall colors so you won’t need to pay for the paint. By putting in good interior wall treatments, you will get the most out of your apartment as well as enjoy the best of cheap living.
Cheap living doesn’t mean that you have to give up style. You can add some interesting pieces of furniture to your rental apartment. There’s no reason to sacrifice quality and function for the price, especially when it comes to a rental apartment that is located in an urban area. Look for a variety of storage units and cabinets made from solid, durable materials. You can also try out one of the many funky-looking shelving units that are available today, which you can access through the use of a ladder.
Your walls can be your largest source of inspiration when it comes to decorating. Consider hanging some mirrors to create a small “break room.” This can be used for playing games, chatting, reading or having small talks with friends. Aside from games, this area can also be used for setting the mood during the evenings. Use soft natural lighting to create a cozy, intimate space. Remember that a smaller space feels bigger, so paint the walls in soothing, pale colors to make your apartment feel more spacious.
When it comes to decorating an apartment with walls, you’re better off with a colorful palette painted in bold hues. However, if you want your apartment to feel bigger, you can choose a palette with subtle earth tones. For instance, if you’re planning to put furniture on the walls, consider purchasing blinds or curtains in darker shades. To save money, you can always paint the trim, which is usually done in neutral colors. An empty wall can easily become a focal point by painting it with an interesting pattern or by hanging art-deco hanging hooks.