Redesign tips for a budget-friendly home
FROM repurposing old clutters to handcrafting personalized home décor, an interior design expert shares her budget-friendly tips and tricks on how to restyle particular rooms and studio-type apartments.
“Nowadays, because of the (Covid-19) pandemic, 90 percent of our time is spent at home. It made us assess what is missing or what needs to be done,” explained Katherine Anne Correa, interior designer and chairperson of the Interior Design Program of the College of Saint Benilde School of Design and Arts.
According to Correa, decluttering is the first thing to do on the list. Identify which items can be disposed or can be upcycled and reused.
“When you rearrange and fix your space, it feels rejuvenating. Somehow, we feel like we enhanced some parts of our lives. This is actually therapeutic,” she shared.
Repainting may be the next activity when redesigning an area. A repainted accent wall may give a new vibe, while wallpapers provide less intensive work.
“There are a lot of wallpapers that are less expensive. You can buy sticker options that are affordable and are easy to install. I actually did a whole plan using this type,” Correa noted.
For those who wish to accentuate their spaces and get extra crafty, interior design expert suggests exploring découpage or the art of decorating an object by blending recycled colored paper cut-outs, special paint effects and art elements.
“You can use old books, paint it over with a polyurethane finish and hang it on your shelves,” said Correa.
Large mirrors placed against the wall may be a great addition, serving both as an aesthetic yet functional piece and as a tool to double the space in any small area.
“This is a trend now and a lot of different styles of mirrors have been coming out in the market,” the interior designer stated.
Refurnishing does not always mean to purchasing new furniture and replacing old ones.
Old wooden chairs may be repainted or reupholstered with bright colors to give off a refreshing new look, while night tables may be constructed out of a pile of old hardbound books. “Use an upcycled bottle and add dried flowers as an accessory or wrap some fairy lights around it. This will serve as your bedside lamp,” Correa stressed.
For those who think they need new furniture pieces, visiting flea markets or thrift shops first. “The items are second-hand but are a lot cheaper. There are a lot of good buys if you know what you are looking for,” she noted.
Correa believes it is likewise possible to achieve a trendy, stylish, and “Instagrammable” home without spending much. The keyword one must keep in mind: Do-it-yourself (DIY).
“DIY projects always make for reasonable and affordable home décor. Accentuate with personalized crocheted or handwoven bedspreads and throw pillows. You can also buy traditional weaves such as Inabel or Inaul,” she stated.
At the end of the day, do not refrain from pursuing the house of your dreams. With these practical tips serving as guides or inspiration, let your imagination and creative juices run wild, surprise yourself by turning your humble abode into something pleasing to the eye and perhaps worthy of posting on Instagram or other social media platforms.