Budget Home Decorating Tips

In this chapter, we will look at a number of different ways to provide a new look to your living room.  It may be that you are just starting out in a new home, or that you would like to revive an old tired space, but decorating any room, and especially the living room, can be a real challenge.  It can be even more of a challenge when you only have small budget to work with. 

But the biggest hurdle that we face is how to get a look that expresses our unique personality, without spending a fortune.  However, by looking at the items you already have in a different way, you should be able to create a cozy family room for almost next to nothing.  Below are provided a number of decorating tips which should help to turn a drab living room into a warm and friendly place for everybody to gather.

1.  Paint

Paint one wall using your favorite color, and so make this the focal point of the room.  Then hang a piece of interesting art on the wall (it could even be something you have made yourself).  Next, place a nice piece of furniture on that side of the room to provide even more accent to the wall.  If you want to add extra impact to the wall, then why not use a rubber stamping technique?  Although it is extremely easy to do, rubber stamping can look very impressive when finished.

2. Use an Area Rug

This is a great way to define a conversation area and look for one which will complement the décor of the room.  Rather than lying it straight, put it at an angle underneath your coffee table (if you have one).  Or if not, then just place it in a central location where the seating is situated.  Why not add some large cushions as well?

3. Pictures & Mirrors

Hang those which most reflect your personality.  If you are able to, try frames that are more ornate.  Plus, when hanging a mirror, place it in a position where it will reflect either a nice view, or an interesting architectural element of the room.  Including a mirror in a room also creates the illusion of more space in a room because of the light reflecting off it.

4.  Lighting

Replace lamps, as these are one thing that will provide clues to your room being outdated.  If you are unable to replace the whole lamp, then just consider replacing the lampshade instead.

5.  Coffee Table

If your coffee table is looking tired or scratched, then cover it with a small decorative throw rug.  Or if you want to be a bit more adventurous, then why not consider tiling the top of it with mosaic tiles or colored glass instead?

6. Rearrange the Furniture

But do not think square; instead, put your furniture at an angle.  By doing this you are giving a whole new look to the layout of your room, and is much more inexpensive than going out and buying new furniture.

Also pay attention to the floor space that you have left and use it.  You could actually get some scatter cushions and use these as additional seating.  It will provide your living room with a much more relaxed atmosphere.

7.  Plants

Use plants to add freshness and impact to the décor of your room, and if placed strategically, will hide any ugly flaws in a room.

Finally, if you do not need it, then remove it.  You can either donate it to your local charity, or ask a family member or friend if they could use it.  By de-cluttering a space, you will not only be providing yourself with more room, but you will also be gaining a whole new look.