The words “apartment decorating ideas” typically bring to mind a Pinterest board full of beautiful, wallet-unfriendly designs. But the reality is not as cranky as it may seem sometimes. In fact, a little creativity and some bargain-hunting can get you far. So take a look and see what inspiration you can find! Here are some ideas that will help you achieve a brand-new room without breaking the bank.
Is It Possible to Notably Change Apartment Decor on a Budget?
The answer is yes, but it requires some creativity and resourcefulness. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
- First, consider what changes you actually need to make. For instance, is your furniture in good condition, and you just want to update your color scheme? Then painting, reupholstering, or decoration changing may be all you need to do.
- Second, take advantage of clearance sales and second-hand deals when shopping for new furniture and decor items. You can often find great bargains if you’re willing to put in a little extra time & effort.
- Finally, get creative with DIY projects. Something as simple as refurbishing an old piece of furniture can totally transform the look of a room.
Budget-Friendly Apartment Decorating Ideas
A tight budget doesn’t mean your apartment can’t be stylish. With a bit of creativity and elbow grease, you can achieve the look you want without breaking the bank. Here are 10 apartment decorating ideas to get you started:
1. Paint Your Walls (Or Ceiling) a New Color
This is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to make a significant impact in your space. If you don’t love the color after living with it for a while, you can always repaint. Just be sure to pick a color you won’t get sick of after a while.
2. Apartment Decorating Ideas With an Accent Wall
One of the easiest and most effective ways to add a touch of personality to your apartment is to create an accent wall. This can be done by painting one wall boldly or hanging a large piece of artwork. If you’re on a tight budget, you can also find reasonably priced wallpaper that will make a statement. Still, make sure it coordinates with the rest of your décor to maintain the overall look cohesive.
3. Refresh Kitchen & Bathroom Tiles With Vinyl
If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to update your kitchen or bathroom decor, consider refreshing your tiles with vinyl. This material is durable and easy to clean, making it a great option for high-traffic areas. Plus, it comes in various colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect look to match your style. And even if you make a mistake, vinyl panels are easy to replace.
4. Use Vinyl Stickers to Reinvent Your Furniture
Does your furniture look dated and worn out? Infuse it a new life using vinyl stickers. You can find them in a variety of designs, from geometric patterns to floral prints. Some producers even offer panels tailored to fit many standard dresser forms & dimensions. All you need to do is peel off the backing and stick them onto the surface. If you ever get tired of the design, it’s easy to remove without damaging the furniture.
5. Change Curtains And/or Combine Them With Blinds
New window treatments can brighten up any space and make it more cohesive. Sometimes it’s even sufficient to rearrange the existing drapes to achieve a new look. For instance, switch opaque curtains with sheer ones to brighten up a room and make it feel airier. You can also combine curtains with blinds to create a layered look that enhances visual interest.
6. Make Space for a New Rug in Your Apartment Decorating Ideas
A fresh rug can completely transform the look of your space and add some much-needed comfort and warmth. Moreover, if you have hardwood floors, area rugs will help keep them in the best shape. If you’re on a tight budget, check out second-hand stores or online auction sites for great deals on gently used rugs. And if you feel crafty, try making your own rag rug using fabric scraps.
7. Trendy Apartment Decorating Ideas With Layered Rugs
Layering rugs is an excellent, trendy way to add more visual interest and texture to your floor. It’s also a great way to save money since you can often find great deals on second-hand rugs. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different sizes, colors, and patterns. Also, identify the places where the layering would make the most impact. For example, a smaller rug in front of the sofa can add color and texture, while a larger neutral rug anchors the space and make it feel more pulled together.
8. Update Your Furniture With New Hardware
Another inexpensive way to spruce up your space is to switch out your hardware. Cabinet knobs and drawer pulls are available in various styles and can be easily swapped out with a screwdriver. Replacing old hardware will give your kitchen or bathroom a fresh, new look without spending much money.
9. Rearrange Your Existing Furniture to Create a New Look
A new furniture layout is a great way to achieve a fresh look without spending any money at all. Simply moving a few pieces around can give your space an entirely new feel. And best of all, it’s completely free! If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at some online apartment decorating ideas for inspiration. Once you have a few concepts in mind, start with the largest pieces and work your way down to the smaller ones.
10. Use Second-Hand & Vintage Finds to Convey an Eclectic Vibe
If you’re looking for a way to stand out, decorate your apartment using second-hand and vintage finds. Global, boho, and eclectic interior design styles are hotter than ever; hence, with some skill, you might convey seriously striking results. By shopping at thrift stores, estate sales, and garage sales, you can find unique pieces full of distinct character. In addition, there is a strong chance you’ll discover valuable furniture and décor for a fraction of the cost.
11. Create an Interesting Decor Arrangement With Artwork or Photos
Arranging artwork or photos is an easy way to add personality to your space. And the best part is, you can change it up as often as you like without spending any money. The safest, rookie-proof way to get there is by creating a simple, symmetrical gallery wall composed of same-sized pieces. However, if you feel creative, the sky is the limit.
12. Use Plants or Flowers to Brighten up the Space
Plants can help purify the air and add a touch of nature to any room. In addition, flowers provide a splash of color for an instant mood boost. Best of all, many species are relatively inexpensive, making some of the best apartment ideas on a budget. If you’re unsure where to start, a trip to your local nursery or florist can help you make a suitable choice. (Don’t forget to ask about watering!)
13. Get Creative With Storage Solutions
Storage is always important in small spaces, but it doesn’t have to be boring. Get creative with baskets, bins, and boxes to declutter and organize your space in style. Curate items to serve more than one purpose—make them a decorative asset, too!
14. Apartment Decorating Ideas With Colorful Accessories Will Brighten Up Your Space
Finally, don’t forget about soft accessories! Small items like pillows and throws can make a big style statement in your space. They are also the most convenient choice for temporary or rental apartment decorating ideas. And when it comes time to move, soft accessories are easy to take with you.
15. Update Your Lighting
A well-lit room feels open, airy, and inviting. If your apartment feels a little dark and dreary, consider updating your lighting. You don’t need to break the bank to get new light fixtures. Look for sales at your local home improvement store, or scour flea markets and antique stores for unique pieces. You can also try some DIY projects to add a personal touch to your space. For example, try hanging string lights or creating luminaries out of mason jars.
Use professional assistance to make the most of your apartment decorating ideas on a budget
With a little creativity and effort, you can easily decorate your apartment on a budget. Shopping wisely and making small changes will allow you to transform your living space into a stylish and inviting home. And if you need professional help, use the advantage of online interior design and pick one of the convenient, affordable packages.
You can also hire a professional interior designer for truly remarkable results.
Or, consult our experts online free of charge to learn more before committing.
Image sources: 1, Homilo design portfolio