Starting fresh as a married couple definitely warrants a mini home makeover. But whether you’re settling into a brand-new place, or just looking to give your same-old space a facelift, budget is probably at the front of your mind. Let’s face it: your super-fabulous wedding and exotic honeymoon have done a number on your savings! Fortunately, there are many easy and affordable ways to freshen up your newlywed nest.
Musical Chairs
First and foremost, take stock of what you already have. That way, you can accurately assess what you may need to purchase, and you can also think about investing in key pieces. If possible, it’s best to keep the “bones” of your space neutral; then you can add personality and interest with budget-friendly accessories. Also consider simple cosmetic changes; taking up a carpet or rearranging your furniture can make a world of difference. Using existing pieces in new ways can also spice up your space. In her book, Thrift: How to Have a Stylish Home Without Breaking the Bank (Key Porter Books, 2006), Bridget Bodoano points out that a traditional dresser can provide great storage when placed in a kitchen or dining room. Likewise, Bodoano describes how to create a makeshift dressing table for the bedroom by hanging an oversized mirror over a basic desk.
Stroke of Genius
When it comes to frugal redecorating, nothing beats a fresh coat of paint. With minimal cost and effort, paint can completely transform the look of a room. “For example, contrasting colours can make a room smaller by creating a focal point that takes attention away from the size of the room,” explains Sharon Grech, spokesperson for Benjamin Moore Canada. Your colour choice can also change the mood of a space: “Blues and turquoises can create a refreshing and tranquil feel, while earth tones can inspire warm and cozy thoughts in a room,” Grech remarks. Paint is also pretty much as low-commitment as it gets—if you’re not digging the colour, you can just paint over it! Not forgetting that paint can also revive everything from chairs to bookshelves to picture frames. Breathe new life into thrift-store finds or furniture inherited from friends and family by slicking on a bright, solid colour, or experimenting with a distressed finish.
Fabric Land
Like paint, fabric is a cheap and cheerful way to inject personality and style into any room in the house, or give something old a drastic new look. Perhaps you can’t afford to splurge on a new living room set, but you can absolutely dress up a tired old sofa with stylish patterned pillows or an elegant throw blanket. If you’re a DIY kind of girl, slipcovers are a simple way to update your favourite armchair or settee. Dining room chairs with upholstered seats are also a quick and easy project to tackle. All you need is the perfect fabric, some stuffing and a staple gun. For this reason, don’t shy away from second-hand chairs because they have torn seats; this issue can be easily addressed, and for little money! Artfully draped fabric can also be used to add interest to otherwise bare walls. An ornate tapestry or a length of colourful silk can make a beautiful wall hanging, and is a great chance to showcase any striking textiles you may have picked up during your honeymoon travels. Locally, shopping the remnant bin at your neighbourhood fabric outlet is a terrific way to find chic odds and ends at bargain-basement prices.
Attention to Detail
When it comes to redecorating on a dime, making changes to even the smallest things can have a tremendous impact. If you’re sick of your kitchen cabinets, or that dresser you’ve had since you were in junior high–simply switch the hardware. Decorative handles or knobs can easily make an old piece feel new again. Similarly, a new lampshade can completely refresh a base that’s been gathering dust for years. And if you’re looking for a quick decor fix, choose one wall and make that the focal point of the room. Keep in mind that small items often have more impact in groups—like covering an entire wall with basic wooden or brushed steel picture frames containing your favourite snaps (wedding shots included, of course).
Something Old
When it comes to bargain hunting, it doesn’t get any better than antique fairs, flea markets and thrift shops. If you enjoy the thrill of the hunt, then the world of secondhand goods can’t be beat, and you’ll be amazed at the cost-effective treasures you can unearth. Look for an outdoor antique market in your area, and make a day of it: you’ll both enjoy being out in the fresh air searching for that one item you simply can’t live without. While you’re not likely to find any museum-quality pieces here, you may find some items that will fit right into your space with a little TLC (see paint and fabric, above!). Also, keep in mind that by saving these items from the landfill, you’re doing your part for the planet. Reusing and recycling is both earth and piggy-bank friendly!
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