Creating an elegant and sophisticated home is still possible even on a budget. With a few clever tweaks and some insider knowledge, you can make your home look far more expensive than it actually is.
Here at YourLifeChoices, we understand the importance of making your home a comfortable and stylish retreat, especially as we spend more time enjoying our spaces in our later years.
With that in mind, here are eight budget-friendly tips from Sydney-based interior designer Emma Bloomfield that could help elevate your home’s aesthetic without costing you a fortune.
1. Space out your furniture.
Bloomfield suggests creating ‘conversation areas’ by spacing out furniture and arranging seating to face each other. This not only promotes social interaction but also balances the room, making it feel more open and inviting.
Remember, the goal is to create a space that encourages family and friends to engage with each other, not just watch the television or be glued to their gadgets.
2. Opt for floor-length curtains.
To add a touch of elegance and create the illusion of higher ceilings and a more polished space, Bloomfield suggests choosing floor-length curtains and hanging them high above the window.
She also advises avoiding curtains that are too short as they can make the room feel smaller and disjointed.
For a relaxed vibe, puddled curtains can also be considered. Just keep them clean and tailored for an ‘expensive’ look.
3. Select the right rug size.
A rug should anchor and define an area, says Bloomfield. So, the rug should be large enough that at least the front legs of your furniture sit on it.
This creates a cohesive look and gives the room a solid foundation. Think of your rug as ‘a border’ that outlines where each part of the room begins and ends.
4. Incorporate houseplants.
Houseplants are more than just decorative; they’re functional pieces of art that can help improve air quality and help with sound absorption in echoey rooms.
Choose plants that complement your space and care for them well to keep your home looking lively and fresh. Bloomfield recommends plants like fiddle leaf figs, mother-in-law’s tongue, and ficuses.
5. Add texture.
To prevent a neutral-toned home from looking flat, vary the textures in the room by experimenting with different fabrics on your sofa, cushions, throws, and armchair upholstery.
However, be cautious with textures on big-ticket items like sofas, as they can quickly become outdated, according to professionals.
Instead, focus on smaller, interchangeable items that can be easily updated from time to time.
6. Choose a cohesive colour palette.
When remodelling or refreshing your space, Bloomfield suggests selecting a cohesive colour palette by picking only three to five colours per room. Doing so can add depth and interest to the room without overwhelming the senses.
Don’t be afraid to take risks with colour; variations of the same tone can create a harmonious yet dynamic environment. Warm, earthy tones are welcoming, while brighter colours can inspire creativity.
7. Display art thoughtfully.
Art is a display of wealth and taste. When picking art for your walls, ensure it’s proportionate to the furniture beneath it.
Bloomfield says a piece of art should be ‘about three-quarters the size of the item underneath’, such as a sofa or console table, to create impact and anchor the space.
8. Layer your lighting.
Finally, to add a touch of softness and sophistication to any room, layer your lighting by combining lamps, pendant lights, and sconces.
Swap out harsh white bulbs for warm ones and consider dimmable switches to tailor the lighting to your mood and the room’s functionality.
By implementing these expert tips, you can upgrade your home on a budget. It’s all about making smart choices that have a big impact. So, roll up your sleeves and start transforming your home into the luxurious haven you deserve.We’d love to hear from you, our readers! Have you tried any of these tips in your own home? What was the result? Share your experiences and any additional budget-friendly design tips in the comments below!
Also read: Transform your home: Kmart Australia’s hidden gems for decor—luxury looks at bargain prices!
