Budgets can be a tricky thing. We are bombarded daily with images in magazines and online of homes that we dream about, pine after and covet. The problem is that most of us don’t have the means to engage a designer or to realize our entire wish list. Now, while I can do some crafty things around the house, the sky is not the limit on my skill, however, the “insider” tips in this post are not so difficult to recreate. With any makeover, your’s should begin at the front door. This Regency-Style house has a decidedly 1960s vibe, so instead of fighting it and spending money to make it modern, the owners have embraced the style (which is totally a hot look in Los Angeles these days). A fresh coat of glossy paint on the doors, centered hardware (which is the hottest look in hardware), and replacement outdoor sconces are all you need! The homeowners were wise to make sure the wall lights mimic the vertical lines of the narrow side windows and front doors.         

DRAPE 

When in doubt, drape it! Some people think draping is a cop-out. I think if you can’t afford cabinetry, new doors and expensive furniture, fabric is your friend. I have always been able to find the money in a budget to use real doors on closets, but there is no shame if you can’t, plus using fabric will introduce texture and possibly pattern into your home. When it comes to inherited sinks that you can’t replace, I think a pop of color under the sink is a fine solution. The same goes with closets, tables and desks. When it comes to installing fabric under the sink, all you need is some Velcro to make the magic happen and voila, you have now covered up the cleaning supplies...and you thought I wasn’t handy.    

OPEN SHELVES

If a full kitchen renovation is not in the budget, installing simple, open shelves might be the prefect budget-friendly solution. Here is the thing, don’t feel like you are settling because they can look fantastic! The only drawback is that you will need to have super cute dishes and glassware.

NEW LIGHTING

If you can’t afford a full bathroom remodel, consider updated ceiling lights. Vintage can be great until it becomes grungy. I love these simple and inexpensive bare bulbs. The trick is to spruce up the cord. Try covering the wire with cute thread or the really chic beads seen above. Make sure the materials you use are approved (UL or otherwise) for your lighting situation.     

BE THRIFY

Most designers use flea markets and thrift stores when designing interiors. It’s a sure way to find one-of-a-kind items and save money. Usually we will recover and refinish what we buy, but sometimes it’s a home run out of the gate like the gold upholstered desk chair above. The retro chair works because the room has gold table lamps and a funky gold wall sculpture. The other pictures show you how you can create a gallery wall with one trip to the thrift store, or find chairs that can be instantly updated through paint and new fabric.

FRESH PAINT

When in doubt, paint it. A coat of fresh white paint will always look clean and fresh, whether inside or out; it’s timeless and cleansing. Instead of spending money on expensive runners or new floors consider “renovating” the floors with a painted pattern to add interest, which means you won’t add interest on your credit card. 

Photos courtesy of Boglestreet, Decorno, Manhattan Nest, Domino, EST Magazine, Decor 8, Atlanta Homes Magazine