How To Create The Home Of Your Dreams With Little Money

Decorating on a budget? Here are all the tips you need to have create the home of your dreams, with little money.
decorating home of your dreams on a budget

Decorating a room is difficult, let alone a whole house. Plus, determining what style you’re going for is not the only challenge. Your budget is also a big factor when it comes to deciding how to use your space, but it shouldn’t keep you from having your dream home. It’s a cold world out there and you need a good nest to come back to.
 
Here’s how to create the home of your dreams with little money:

1. What Matters When Decorating Your Home

What differs a house from a home is the level of comfort we feel when we walk through the front door. Although styles can differ, what matters most when decorating your home is that you love it and feel comfortable in it. It’s important to determine what style you like, and then adapt it to your family needs to make sure everyone feels at home. Don’t forget to keep your goal in mind as you decorate.

2. How to Break Down Your Budget

The first thing you need to do is determine how much money you can dedicate to decorating. Once you have a budget, determine which rooms you are redecorating, whether it be all or only the kitchen and living room. Of course, some rooms cost more to redecorate than others. For example, painting your bedroom will be less expensive than buying a new couch for the living room. If you’ve taken the time to determine what you want to do to each room and you've set your priorities, you will be able to split up your budget accordingly.
 
One thing I’ve done is, once I had my ideas for what I wanted to change, I looked up how much it usually costs for these things in advance. For example, I wanted to paint my office a different color and buy a new desk and chair. I then checked how much it would cost for paint, and then I shopped for desks and office chairs online to get a feel of what I wanted and of the prices. When I saw that it was within what I was willing to spend, I proceeded with my plan. Looking up the prices of a certain thing you want to add will help you determine if it’s within your budget and if it isn’t, where to cut to then find a different solution. I suggest looking it up in advance so that you don’t need to back out of your plans later on because you can’t afford it.

3. Determine What Decorating Style You're Going For

If you have no idea what your decorating style is, the best option is probably Pinterest. You’ll be able to explore a variety of different styles and feels. You can also look through deco magazines to get inspired. Once you have a better idea of what you like, search up ideas again, this time more specific to the style you’re going for. Keep in mind that some styles are more expensive to achieve when you look around.
 
Go for the bigger picture. Determine what the key elements of this specific style are. Once you have the bigger guidelines, go look into the details you want to add. This is where you want to add a touch of you, as it is your home after all. It would be sad to put so much effort into it only to have it feel impersonal. It can be as simple as picture frames of your family and friends, and good memories. It could also be a plant you cherish. It can be anything really, but make sure you have at least one element that will make it feel like it’s your home.

4. How to Choose What Colour to Paint Your Walls

Choosing a color should depend on your personal taste and the purpose of the room. Studies show that different colors have a different effect on the mind. Some colors excite the mind, while others calm it.

For example, dark colors tend to excite and wake up the mind. That means painting your bedroom dark red would be a bad idea. But a light green can reduce the feelings of anxiety, which would make it a better candidate. Although you might really like dark red, it is important to consider that the purpose of your bedroom is for you to relax and sleep.

So yes, your personal taste is important, but the purpose of the room should come first. 

5. How to Personalize Your Bedroom With Little Money

The easiest, cheapest thing to do to change up the look of your room is to move it around, to switch up where your furniture is placed. To help you see where things could fit, you can draw out your room on a sheet of paper and play around with the furniture. There now also exist some apps that give you a 3D view, which could be very helpful.
 
Once your room is arranged in a way you like, the best thing to do to personalize your room is to add pictures and choose what color represents you. Once you’ve chosen what color you like, make it your color accent. Buying some cushions and small decorative items in that color can be enough to bring it to life. If you decide to change the color accent, later on, you'll only need to change out these pieces so you'll save a lot. As for pictures, there are many ways to hang them up.
 
Here are a few examples to help you personalize your bedroom:

a. Gallery Wall

Bedroom gallery wall budget decoration

A gallery wall even becomes an accent point in your decoration. You can choose to put personal pictures in it or find a picture kit online that fits your style.

b. Clip Photo Holder

Clip photo holder fairy lights budget decoration

Some photo clips paired with some fairy light can give a cute magical feel to your bedroom.

6. How to Revive Your Kitchen on a Budget

Have you ever thought of putting plants in your kitchen? Kitchens often get a lot of sunlight, so it could be easy and cheap to place some plants on your windowsill. If you think you won’t be able to keep them alive, there are some very realistic plastic plants out there that can be a great alternative. Adding some greens and life to your kitchen will certainly revive it.

Revive kitchen on budget plants in kitchen

Another thing you can do is expose your fruits and vegetables. As we all know, some fruits and vegetables need to be left on the counter. If you find a beautiful plate to put them on, it can really bring your kitchen together and give a fresh feel.     

7. How to Make Your Living Room Cozier on a Budget

The secret to a cozy living room is your color palette. Whether you’re into country or minimalistic décor, having a warm color palette can make any style feel welcoming. Go for soft, warm colors such as a creamy beige or a soft blue. There is also evidence that certain greens can actually reduce anxiety.

blue color cozy living room on budget

To find the perfect color for you, go to your favorite local store where you usually buy your paint. They’ll usually have a wall set up with little samples of all of their available colors and shades. These samples are free, so don’t hesitate in picking a few that you like. Then, bring them home and test them out to see how they look in your living room lighting. It may be very different from how it looked at the store. Once you’ve chosen your favorite one, buy the paint and get to work!

8. How to Make The Most Out of Your Bathroom on a Budget

When it comes to a bathroom, less is more. Don’t go too overboard. A bathroom should feel welcoming but look clean. Whatever style you go for, try to keep it minimalistic in the bathroom. If your bathroom is on the smaller side, painting it a nice shade of white will make it look a lot more open and spacious. As for storage, stores like IKEA sell very stylish racks that can store a lot of stuff but look put away and clean.

Bathroom on a budget accent colour
Image Source: houzz

Having an accent color can also be very nice and a great way to do that is to have fun with your towel colors. For example, my bathroom is a very light shade of blue. However, I have dark blue towels that tie in with my dark blue storage rack and my dark blue candle. It’s a subtle pop of color. 

9. How to Get Cute But Cheap Decorations

“One man’s trash is another man’s treasure”, as they say. Thrifting can be an excellent way to find some unique and cute decorations. Plus, it’s usually a lot cheaper than buying it new. Some treasures are truly hiding in thrift stores. Go find them! You might be surprised by what you find. It might even inspire you. I’ve decorated my whole bedroom around a single canvas. You never know where your discoveries will take you.

10. How to Make Something Cheap Look Expensive 

If you’re into the chic and expensive look, the good news is that you can easily fake it. No need to spend immense amounts on furniture. If you already have the furniture pieces you need, you can give them a makeover. If not, you can go thrifting and see if you can find what you need. Don’t let the exterior look throw you off. Think about the potential of a piece and what you could do with it. You can change the exterior later.
 
A quick and easy way to change the exterior of a piece of furniture is to paint it. White and black are usually the colors used for a chic look, but a deep brown can also be good. Just make sure you choose a color that will go with the rest of your décor. You can also change the handles to make them match the color and style you're giving it.

painting furniture decorating on budget

Another option is contact paper or wallpaper. With contact paper, you can find marble or similar types of expensive-looking designs. If the application is done right, it could fool anyone. But you didn’t need to pay too much.

marble contact paper decorating on budget

Be creative and think of how you can upgrade the furniture and accessories you already have. If not, find some used ones and do some DIY. 

11. How to Make The Most Out of Your Space When Decorating

The best way to make the best out of what you have is to plan it out. With a budget, every dollar counts. Planning and deciding what you’re going to do in advance will guarantee the best use of your money and your space. Although this is a step that is often neglected, it is very important and will surely help you avoid a lot of mishaps. Don’t hesitate in using all the tools available to make it easier for you like apps and programs.

As we've mentioned before, moving furniture around is free. So as you are planning, play around with the furniture to see how you can place to make the best use of your space and of your furniture. If some furniture can serve as double duty, put it to use.

Lighting is also a big part of decorating and it is very important, as it sets the mood in a room. You wouldn't want to have big white industrial lights in your bedroom, right? But yellow cozy lighting is usually very appreciated. So make sure you pay attention to the energy your lights are giving off. Light bulbs are not that expensive, but they can make all the difference. If your budget allows it, have fun with it and make your light fixtures be part of the decoration.

lighting in room decorating on a budget

In conclusion, it is possible for you to create the home of your dreams, even on a budget. With proper planning and some creativity, you can make it happen. So, do your research, plan it out, and get decorating!

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Opinions and Perspectives

SustainableSoul commented SustainableSoul 3 years ago

These suggestions helped me create a cohesive look throughout my home without breaking the bank.

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LaylaK commented LaylaK 3 years ago

Started implementing these changes gradually. Small improvements each month add up to big transformations.

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GiselleH commented GiselleH 3 years ago

The tips about making cheap look expensive really work. My place looks much more high-end now.

1
GhostlyVibes commented GhostlyVibes 3 years ago

Never realized how much proper furniture arrangement could improve a room's flow.

1
PhantomPulse commented PhantomPulse 3 years ago

Using these ideas to freshen up my space each season without spending much.

4
Helena-Franklin commented Helena-Franklin 3 years ago

Taking time to plan definitely saved money in the long run. No more impulse purchases.

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HazelDream commented HazelDream 3 years ago

Found some great DIY tutorials online to complement these tips. Made my own floating shelves!

6
MidnightEcho commented MidnightEcho 3 years ago

The article inspired me to finally tackle my home office. Amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do.

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QuantumSurge commented QuantumSurge 3 years ago

My local dollar store has some surprisingly good decor items. Don't dismiss budget stores!

3
KallieH commented KallieH 3 years ago

Creating a cohesive color scheme throughout the house made everything flow better.

7
Delaney-Webster commented Delaney-Webster 3 years ago

The suggestion about drawing room layouts helped me realize I had too much furniture.

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NicholasBailey commented NicholasBailey 3 years ago

These tips helped me work with what I already had instead of buying all new stuff.

1
Lillian_Glow commented Lillian_Glow 3 years ago

Love how the article emphasizes making spaces personal. Too many rooms nowadays look like hotel rooms.

2
Fleming_Feature commented Fleming_Feature 3 years ago

Using mirrors to make spaces look bigger really works. Doubled the apparent size of my hallway.

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Isla_Daydream commented Isla_Daydream 3 years ago

Started a decoration fund where I save a little each month. Makes it easier to afford bigger pieces.

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The tip about matching metal finishes made a huge difference in my kitchen. Everything looks more coordinated now.

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JamesP1995 commented JamesP1995 3 years ago

Properly planning each room's purpose really helped me avoid wasting money on unnecessary items.

5
Brokaw_Broadcast commented Brokaw_Broadcast 3 years ago

I made some abstract paintings for my walls. Not perfect but they add a personal touch and saved hundreds.

8

Has anyone tried making their own artwork? Thinking of trying it to save money.

2
SimpleLivingJoy commented SimpleLivingJoy 3 years ago

Never thought about the psychology of colors before. Explains why I couldn't sleep in my bright red bedroom!

1

Good point about paint being the cheapest way to transform a room. Made such an impact in my space.

2

The personal touches make such a difference. Added family photos and suddenly my house felt like home.

2

Check secondhand shops for baskets and boxes. I found some great ones that look expensive but weren't.

0

Having trouble finding good storage solutions that don't look cheap. Any suggestions?

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Naomi_Fantasy commented Naomi_Fantasy 3 years ago

These budget tips helped me transform my first apartment. Small changes really do add up.

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Couch_Column commented Couch_Column 3 years ago

Spent ages choosing the perfect white for my walls. There really are hundreds of shades!

8
Winter_Bloom commented Winter_Bloom 3 years ago

Never thought of using paper to plan furniture layout. Such a simple but effective idea.

1
Balz_Breakdown commented Balz_Breakdown 3 years ago

I discovered my whole house color scheme from a single throw pillow I loved.

8
IvyB commented IvyB 3 years ago

Finding my style on Pinterest was overwhelming at first. So many options!

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Everly_J commented Everly_J 3 years ago

The less is more approach for bathrooms is working great. Finally got rid of all the clutter.

2
KennedyM commented KennedyM 3 years ago

Been using these tips in my rental. Amazing how much you can do without permanent changes.

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Nina-Craig commented Nina-Craig 3 years ago

Learned the hard way about testing paint colors in different lighting. What looked perfect in daylight was awful at night.

4
EthanMoore commented EthanMoore 3 years ago

Budget tips are helpful but some projects still seem expensive even with cost cutting.

4
EchoDimension commented EchoDimension 3 years ago

The DIY suggestions really work. Transformed my old coffee table with chalk paint and everyone asks where I bought it.

2
NoraH commented NoraH 3 years ago

Didn't expect thrifting to be so rewarding. Found amazing vintage pieces that give my place character.

3
StormBreaker commented StormBreaker 3 years ago

Started with one room at a time like suggested. Makes the whole process less overwhelming.

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Hume_Headlines commented Hume_Headlines 3 years ago

Wish they'd mentioned more about window treatments. That's been my biggest decorating challenge.

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Linda-Vega commented Linda-Vega 3 years ago

Love the idea of using towels for bathroom accent colors. Such an easy way to change things up!

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DigitalVisionary commented DigitalVisionary 3 years ago

The advice about warm color palettes is spot on. My living room feels so much cozier after switching from grey to warm beige.

5
PenelopeNelson commented PenelopeNelson 3 years ago

Anyone else find it therapeutic to plan out room designs on paper first?

4
OpalM commented OpalM 3 years ago

Real plants versus fake is such a personal choice. I killed three real ones before accepting that quality fake plants work better for me.

5
MeditationMaven commented MeditationMaven 3 years ago

The tip about upgrading hardware is so true. Changed all my kitchen cabinet handles and it looks like a different kitchen.

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AudreyGriffin commented AudreyGriffin 3 years ago

Tried the fairy lights with photo clips in my teen's room. She absolutely loves it!

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SynthWaveX commented SynthWaveX 3 years ago

Good article but they should have mentioned the importance of proper lighting placement. It makes such a difference.

2
Elena commented Elena 4 years ago

I use RoomPlanner and it's pretty good for basic layouts. Really helped me visualize different furniture arrangements.

2

Anyone tried those 3D room planning apps mentioned? Which ones work best?

3
April-Moody commented April-Moody 4 years ago

Smart point about considering room purpose when choosing colors. My red office actually helps me stay alert while working.

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LilyThompson commented LilyThompson 4 years ago

The article missed mentioning seasonal decor changes. I switch out throw pillows and blankets each season for an affordable refresh.

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NeonHorizon commented NeonHorizon 4 years ago

Totally agree about double duty furniture. My ottoman with storage inside is the best purchase I ever made.

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Douthat_Dossier commented Douthat_Dossier 4 years ago

Using the color samples tip saved me from a big mistake. The green I loved in store looked terrible in my room lighting.

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TwilightPhantom commented TwilightPhantom 4 years ago

I've found Facebook Marketplace amazing for finding cheap furniture to upcycle. Better than thrift stores sometimes.

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SilentGuardianX commented SilentGuardianX 4 years ago

Not convinced about the light colors making small bathrooms look bigger. Mine still feels tiny even after painting it white.

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IvyMoonlight commented IvyMoonlight 4 years ago

The fruit bowl idea in the kitchen is brilliant. Looks great and reminds me to eat healthy!

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VenusJ commented VenusJ 4 years ago

Just moved my furniture around like suggested and wow what a difference! Didn't spend a dime but my room feels brand new.

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EverlyWarren commented EverlyWarren 4 years ago

Planning really is key. I wasted so much money buying things without measuring first. Now I always make a proper plan.

0

My local thrift stores are getting pretty expensive lately. Sometimes new items at Target are actually cheaper.

4
Lindsay-Wright commented Lindsay-Wright 4 years ago

I struggle with the minimalist bathroom advice. Where am I supposed to keep all my stuff?

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Ophelia_Dawn commented Ophelia_Dawn 4 years ago

The part about making cheap look expensive really works. I transformed an old dresser with paint and new handles. Everyone thinks it's designer!

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AlyssaF commented AlyssaF 4 years ago

Anyone else surprised by how much lighting can change a room? Switched from overhead to floor lamps and it feels like a completely different space.

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BriaM commented BriaM 4 years ago

Try using command strips for hanging photos! They work great and won't damage walls. I've used them all over my apartment.

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June_Flare commented June_Flare 4 years ago

Looking for creative ways to display family photos without making holes in the walls. Any suggestions?

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Madison_77 commented Madison_77 4 years ago

The warm color palette suggestion for living rooms is spot on. Changed my cool grays to warmer tones and the room feels so much more inviting now.

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CodePhantom commented CodePhantom 4 years ago

Plants in the kitchen made such a difference! I started with some low maintenance pothos and they're thriving in the window.

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VibrantEclipse commented VibrantEclipse 4 years ago

I find thrifting really hit or miss. Sometimes I spend hours looking and find nothing worthwhile.

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Tyler commented Tyler 4 years ago

Actually I used contact paper on my counters last year and it's held up great! Just make sure to properly clean the surface first and take your time applying it.

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HenryMartinez commented HenryMartinez 4 years ago

My IKEA bathroom storage rack has been a game changer. Looks way more expensive than it was and keeps everything tidy.

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Sienna_Morris commented Sienna_Morris 4 years ago

Has anyone tried contact paper on kitchen counters? I'm thinking of doing this but worried it won't last.

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PixelKnight commented PixelKnight 4 years ago

Not sure I agree about dark colors being bad for bedrooms. I painted mine navy blue and find it super cozy and peaceful.

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NicoleFisher commented NicoleFisher 4 years ago

I tried the gallery wall suggestion in my bedroom and it looks amazing! Got most of my frames from thrift stores for under $20 total.

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Jade_Dreamer commented Jade_Dreamer 4 years ago

The budget breakdown approach really works. I listed everything I wanted and prioritized based on impact versus cost. Ended up saving money by focusing on what mattered most.

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NourishYourSoul commented NourishYourSoul 4 years ago

I love how practical this guide is! Just painted my bedroom using the color psychology tips and went with a soft sage green. What a difference it makes in helping me wind down at night.

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