These are tough economic times, but that doesn’t mean we have to compromise on style, especially in our homes. If it’s time to freshen up your home but you don’t think you have the funds for a facelift, think again. There are many simple ways you can spruce up your space without breaking the bank.
We asked 10 Canadian designers to share their ideas for living luxuriously at home without spending a lot of money.
1 Splurge on a signature item
Choose to spend a bit extra on one or two items in a room. Find a chair with great fabric or exotic wood or a beautiful piece of art. These items are what people will notice as they first enter the room. They’ll pop and everything else can be worked around and decorated for less. Terry Doiron, Oak Leaf Interiors, Halifax
2 Change your light fixtures
I almost always do this when I’m refreshing a home to put on the market. It makes a world of difference. In my own home, in order to save money, I purchased exterior lanterns and hung them over my kitchen island in a group of three. I bought the lights at Home Depot and they were less than $50 each. They cost less than one fancy interior light and I get compliments on them every time someone comes over. Jennifer Prichodko, Lemonaid Designs, Winnipeg
3 Get organized
The most inexpensive thing to do to spruce up your home is purge, organize and find functional and fashionable storage. It’s simple and can be completed over a weekend. Many people are so busy that they think a makeover will solve the problem [of too much stuff], but really they just need to get rid of the clutter. Shop at IKEA for simple storage solutions and then donate unwanted clothes to the Salvation Army, old home fixtures to Habitat for Humanity or have a garage sale. Kate Cannata, New Leaf Interior Design, Vancouver
4 Put an emphasis on accents
I love potted orchids in a fabulous pot. Also, large glass containers holding lemons, limes or apples can add a splash of colour, look current and keep you healthy. Large beautiful candles add glamour and create a wonderful ambiance during evening relaxing time. Lynda MacLachlan, Creatif Design, Vancouver
5 Shop smart
I like to shop at Fabricland for pillows that range in price from $15 to $20 each. They also carry a variety of window treatments in different styles and colours that are in the $50 per panel range. Ten Thousand Villages carries wonderful baskets made in different sizes, from unique materials. The prices are modest and as a consumer you’re supporting fair trade. They also carry decorative boxes, tapestries and treasures from around the world. Lastly, the old standby for me is HomeSense. I can accessorize an entire house in one store. Adene Lucas, Accent on Design, Calgary
Image courtesy of Crate and Barrel
