[AD] Where we live says a lot about us. It shows the world that we are hard workers and that we have pride in ourselves. Houses are expensive, and the upkeep on them is not cheap either. Unless you win the Irish lottery, you probably need to look for ways to give your home an elegant look while staying on your budget. So, here are some ideas to help you give your home an ultra chic look whilst sticking to your budget.
Curb appeal
The exterior of your house plays a big part in its curb appeal and how it’s viewed from the outside. Regular maintenance, including cleaning, re-painting and tidying will keep the exterior in good shape. The same goes for your garden too. Aim to keep your lawn, shrubs, trees and plants well manicured, by cutting the lawn regularly and trimming hedges when needed. It’s an easy job to do yourself and you can save money by doing it yourself, rather than employing a gardener or handyman.
Go neutral with pops of colour
Consider decorating your home in relatively neutral colours that won’t go out of date or off trend. Having the same colour palette throughout your home will help create a chic look. Add pops of colour into rooms by using well chosen accessories, such as colourful chairs, cushions, rugs, pictures and throws. If the walls in your home are neutral, the accessories can always be swapped from room-to-room, giving your more value for money.
Note: Declutter! Get rid of anything that is worn or outdated. Throw away posters, frames, and dishes that are chipped, cracked, or can’t be fixed. Ditch any faded throws or cushions, or pillows that have lost their bounce.
Use your imagination
When you’re designing a room, use your imagination and creativity. Don’t try to overbalance things. Regardless of what your mother told you, you do not need the big piece in the centre and a small one on either side. Mix patterns and colours. Mix textures. Be unique and don’t be afraid to add you own quirky touches.
Your room is a little black dress
Think of your room like a little black dress and everything else as an accessory. You need jewellery. This is your lighting. Overhead lighting is for charm, not light. Accessorize with a beautiful chandelier. It can be as simple or ornate as you can imagine. Lamps are there for light. Make them soft and beautiful. Place them around mirrors to reflect the light around the room. Use artwork to create a burst of colour. This is chic, tasteful, and beautiful and a very stylish pieces can be all you need to make an impact.
Classic furniture
To save money and still create a style that is elegant, go with quality over quantity. A few well-made classic pieces of furniture will always look nice. Stay with classic styles and classic materials. Leather is always a good material for living room sofas, and it comes in many colours. Look for furniture made from wood, use mixed metallics and tables with granite or marble tops, if they’re within your budget. If you are ever in doubt, it is always wise to do less. Understated charm is rarely wrong. It is much easier to add to a room than to take away from it.
Your home
It is your home. It is an investment and it is a place to raise your family and enjoy the other people in your lives. Keeping it chic and elegant makes it comfortable. It simply allows you (and others) to enjoy your home. It also allows you to maintain the value in your home.
Be smart when you are adding to your house. Remember, this one basic rule and you will not go wrong. When it comes to your home, aim for classy, not flashy.
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