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I recently asked people between 25 and 45 what décor articles would interest them and their unanimous response was: How to get the maximum effect and spend the minimum amount of money. So here they are:
Choose your dream look
Start with the end in mind, find online references of inspiring interiors that resonate with you and use clever ideas to add character.
READ MORE: Always wondered what a trophy apartment looks like? Check out the most expensive ones in SA
Then narrow the look down by deciding what will work in your space, with your lifestyle and what will make you happy every time you walk through the door.
Decide what the essential items are to recreate the look
Analyse the look of your dream room – what makes it so irresistible?
Is it the colour, the mood, simplicity or a specific style or couch? To have a beautiful space is often more about something unique and interesting, than having the most expensive furniture. Sometimes it is about throwing out clutter or one or two items that spoil your look.
Maybe you simply have to rearrange to create a focal point or add plants or a new duvet cover to your space.
Leaf-print duvet cover, H&M, R399.
Paint the walls
Colour is one of the most affordable ways to add that wow factor – be brave and paint a focal wall.
Also experiment with colour blocking and metal paint. Buy a few paint samples and paint it on the wall where you want your focal wall - it saves on the long run, because paint looks different in different interiors, depending on lighting and the colour of furniture and flooring.
A bold pattern or a bright or glitzy wall might be all you need to give your hand-me-downs a contemporary look. Painting old, dark wooden furniture white or a bright colour, will also give it a younger look.
Buy a few beautiful items
If you have to buy furniture, remember it is easier creating a beautiful interior with beautiful pieces. So don’t waste your money on the versatile but bland beige couch, it will never be more than that. Rather choose a few special items than make a statement.
Tindori pendant, Builders Warehouse, R799.
Colourful stripe mini rug, Superbalist, R599.
You can save by shopping around, rather than compromising on looks. Find something in the same colour and style elsewhere.
READ MORE: Décor trends say we'll be buying less and spending more time making our homes our sanctuaries
Before you go shopping, measure the space that you have for a specific furniture piece as well as the size of your door.
There is nothing worse having to send a couch back that won’t go around the bend in the passage – you end up having to pay a handling fee.
Chelsey 3-seater, @home, R9,999.
The most affordable shops with beautiful furniture and decor accessories:
Images: Supplied and iStock
WATCH: Adding designer touches without breaking the bank
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