Are you about to start redesigning your newly built extension? Or perhaps you’re planning to redecorate the bedroom? This blog is going to be for you.
Sometimes it can all feel very daunting and you’re not sure where to start. You simply want your home to look beautiful and inject some love back into it but there is a huge range of products out there to help you, you don't want to make expensive mistakes.
Interior Design is much more affordable when you know where to spend and save. At the end of the day, it's all about making smart choices on where to splurge and where to cut back.
Redecorating doesn't have to cause headaches. It can be a mindful and empowering experience, we sometimes just need a little bit of guidance when it comes knowing where to save or spend.
I’ve written this blog to help show you where your money will be well-spent and where you can make a saving.
A word on cutting corners
If you’re thinking of refurbishing or improving a room, you might be tempted to cut corners. We've all been there! After all, the improvement costs can be shocking.
However, skimping on these projects won’t pay off in the long run. Cheaper options will show signs of wear and tear fast. Laminate flooring bows and stick on tiles will fall off. I've heard so many cases where individuals have had to return to the redecorating process to get it right after skimping on products and services the first time.
If you're starting a room improvement project, make sure to spend the money the first time around - otherwise, you could end up paying double!
The right kind of quick fix
We don’t always have money upfront to carry out all those projects, but interim pieces can help towards a gradual improvement.
For example a stunning new print or artwork will immediately add a sense of richness and complexity to a room, and it will bring you a sense of enjoyment which is the most important detail of all. Even when you decide to change your style in the future, you can still make use of the artwork by moving it to another room in your home.
If you regularly follow me you’ll know how much I love textiles here at Grandad's Shed, Yorkshire. Throws, cushions, rugs, bedding, fabrics and textiles can go a long way in terms of pulling a room together. Plus, these are instrumental in layering which can add a real sense of calm to the space.
Colour is an effective way to add visual interest to any space. My favourite trick is to add colour into a neutral base. This way, if you decide to choose bold accent colours, you can easily switch the look around as your tastes change. Keep any textile accent items low cost, so you don’t mind replacing whenever it's time for a fresh look.
Timeless Furniture
Good furniture is an investment. Sure, it can be costly. But if you choose right and take care of your items they can last for decades.
When you’re looking for furniture, especially key pieces such as sofas, beds and dining tables, always focus on neutral looks that can stand the test of time. Having a ‘long shelf life’ will mean you can enjoy it for decades to come. Look out for solid wood and bespoke pieces are a good investment to consider.
Décor Pieces
These items will be one area where you really can make a saving. Since these pieces don’t offer any function to your space other than aesthetic, they’ll be the first thing to go when you’re ready for a ‘new look’. These are the finishing touches to a room but it's not necessary to spend a lot of money on these.
If you're looking to add in a little extra fun with some decor pieces, yet still keep costs down, then I recommend picking a couple of key pieces like these Gold Leaf Sculptures. These are timeless pieces which are versatile enough to suit a changing room if you switch out paint colours or move them into another room. All this and they are still an eye-catching talking point in a room!
Shop Leaf Wall Art here and Leaf Sculpture here.
Need a little help?
You may be under the assumption that interior design is too expensive to be accessible, but this simply isn’t true. It’s possible to refurbish your rooms on a budget as long as you spend your money wisely. If you do need help – help in sourcing products to save time and ideas to make the best use of your space -I always meet clients to go through all wishes, it could for a simple update to your soft furnishings or a full redesign of the interior of your home to help make it an enjoyable experience and avoid any expensive mistakes
It can be a difficult process doing it all yourself. Clients often come to me after having 'redecorate hallway' or ' refurbish the living room' on their to-do lists for a long time. Some have even begun the process, only to feel overwhelmed by the prospect and stopped in their tracks.
I help by taking the daunting job and making it a fun, collaborative project. I want to make sure you get exactly the finish you want, within your budget but in a way that is fun and easy.To keep it simple I have devised my 3-tier pricing structure, from a free initial consultation in our Pocklington Studio to a Full Interior Design Service, click here to discover which is best for you.