Melissa Heath
With nothing left in the kitty after buying your first home, here’s help to stretch your decorating dollar further.
1. Affordable wall art
You’d be amazed at what looks great on your walls if you think a little differently. Using items other than framed art – perhaps those you already own, is an affordable way to decorate your home with thing you love.
2. Add a little character
Everything doesn’t have to be new. Using treasured items and heirloom pieces brings immediate character to a space and, if it needs replacing down the track it won’t owe you anything for its service. Scour op shops and garage sales for bargain buys and upcycle or simply press straight into service.
3. Try a little DIY
A coat of paint or a new set of handles may be all that’s needed to refresh an old piece. Consider using it in a different room for an unconventional change.
4. Plan for your future
As it is your first home, think long term when purchasing or collecting furniture and décor. Larger scale pieces may prove difficult to fit as well down the track so keep it simple.
5. Paint, paint, paint
It’s your first house so express yourself! Paint is a great entry point into home decorating and it’s one of the easiest to correct if you’re not happy with your first choice.
6. Double duty
Where budget and space is challenged, see if you can ask more of your furniture – use a storage trunk as a coffee table, or invest in a sofa bed for guests if you don’t have a spare room for them to stay in.
7. Buy quality where it matters
There are some homewares and furnishings it pays to invest for the long term. Investing in quality rugs, freestanding storage, mattresses and designer armchairs are investments that pay dividends for years to come.
8. Ask around
Look to family members and friends for second hand pieces you can breathe new life into. Look at all offers critically, particularly if they are sturdy and well made, to try to incorporate them into your home, even if on a short term basis.
9. Seek out budget buys for staples
Look to big retailers for every day essentials such as towels, bedlinen, dinnerware and glasses. Keep and eye out for mid- and end-of-year sales to stock up but beware of temptation as you loosen the purse strings. Write a list so you don’t stray and get carried away instore and set yourself a budget and stick to it.
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