Give new life
First of all, most people don't seem to realize that you don't always have to buy everything brand new. Look at some of the good pieces you already have and see if they deserve a new life. For instance, tailoring details into your curtains or a new coat of paint for the furniture is enough to give a room that renovated feel. All it takes is a little time and effort. You could even gather your family or friends and turn redecorating into a fun project. Swap favors: Get a friend to help you paint and you can help them with something else in their own revamp project.
Cover 'em good
Slipcovers are the best and easiest way to breathe new life into old furniture. You can also try new fabrics, colors or patterns. This one simple step will instantly revamp your entire interior. Another option is to throw some cushions to make the place look cozy. The price range begins from Rs 300 and even the big ones don't cost more than Rs 500-600. If you also wish to add a pop of color, we recommend some pillows in bright colors. You just can't go wrong with those. Further, if you are buying new covers for your couch or cushion, consider reversible ones. These days they are available in the market. You could have a wintry color on one side and summery white linen on the other. This way you can easily change the décor whenever you feel like with very little effort.
Add an area rug
Many times a rug is just the thing that is missing. It not only anchors a furniture grouping, but also promotes an orderly feel, and defines a space. Contrary to popular belief, carpets aren't all that expensive. They come in several ranges and the price begins from Rs 2,700 onwards. So rather than breaking the bank you should be more careful about the size of the carpet. While adding one to your room, do make sure it is of the right size. For example, experts believe in dining areas, the rug should be large enough to contain the chair legs when someone pushes them back from the table.
Change the wall color
Changing the wall color is one of the easiest ways to redesign a space. A new color can change the entire tone of a room. What more, you always can choose between a fresh coat of paint or striking patterns with wallpapers. Both are very affordable. A roll of wallpaper is 10-12m and the market price often ranges from Rs 1,700 to Rs 6,000. The colors and patterns can give a very lavish feel to a room. A bucket of paint, on the other hand, will cost Rs 700-800 depending on the brand. You might have to hire extra help to get the job done but if you are feeling confident and adventurous enough, then have some fun splashing around in colors. It might take a while, and some considerable effort but the result will be worth it.
Shelf it
A bookcase can bring an instant sense of order and help you tackle clutter. If you wish to have a custom made shelf then the average market cost is said to be around Rs 15,000 to 16,000. However these days, shelves that can be assembled are also quite popular. They come in different sizes and the shop usually takes the responsibility to put it together. They are also comparatively cheap at around Rs 14,500. Now while arranging things on a bookcase, it is highly recommended that you don't randomly inter mingle objects with books; set aside one shelf for displaying your accessories and one just for the good reads. If you wish to mix accessories and books, then make sure it isn't too cluttered and that there is some breathing space.
Change the mat on artwork
Did you know that with photo frames it's often the color of the mat, not the frame that dates a picture? It's true. So if you wish to jazz up those old sentimental photos hanging on the wall, it's actually very simple. You can easily change the look of the piece by swapping out a light-color mat for a dark one or vice versa. Indeed there is no need to buy new frames. Also an extra tip: When hanging art, be sure not to go too high. A good average eye-level height is to have the center of a painting 5 to 5 ½ feet from the floor.
Change with the Seasons
Put something in a different place and all of a sudden a room feels fresh. Seasonally rotating your showpieces or favorite items is the smartest budget saver. It gives you the change you oh so desire and that too without spending a single rupee. Similarly look for bare areas. Ask yourself which empty spaces and what simple items could be utilized to make the room in question more interesting. A change may be as easy as putting an oversize potted plant in a corner or simply rotating the décor items from one place to another.
Pull it together
Curtains do more than just block out the sun. Window treatments can transform a room, adding personality and character. Furniture stores these days even sell readymade curtains. They are usually of a standard measurement and come in simple designs. The best part is that they are very cost effective. Their price can be as low as Rs 850 per curtain. If however, you want your space to look taller and grander, then custom made draperies are the only way to go. Ceiling-to-floor curtains in rich hues will do the trick.
Throw out, recycle, or donate
If there's a chair no one ever sits in or a table that just collects junk, simply get rid of it. The same goes for old TVs, telephones, and computers. You'll feel lighter, and your home will be more comfortable. The rule here is if you haven't used it for a year, chances are that you'll never use it and you're better off getting rid of it. Plus think of all the good you'll be doing to someone else by donating items you don't use. At least somebody else will.
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