Ways to decorate your apartment to make it feel more ‘grown up’
Renting your first apartment or purchasing your first home is an exciting rite of passage. It’s an opportunity to make a space your own, infusing your taste and design sensibility. But good design doesn’t have to be expensive, and there are a number of easy and affordable ways to make it feel fun, yet sophisticated.
High contrast: High contrast is a designer tip that anyone can use. Sometimes a single color palette can come across as unsophisticated, while using one that utilizes “high contrast” techniques such as black and white, light and dark, can come across as more luxurious.
Pastel colors: Pastel colors are back. They are both youthful and sophisticated.
High versus low: Mixing more expensive pieces with thrift store finds can be a fabulous way to create an overall sophisticated look.
Decorate with books:
Decorating with books is one of the most affordable ways to design. One way to display books is to turn them “spline in” in order to create a consistent look.
No stuffed animals: Stuffed animals are a no-no if you want your space to feel grown up. Consider placing them in a decorative bin.
Add greenery: Plants, succulents, florals and trees are good for your environment and are also a great way to infuse color and sophistication into your space at an affordable price.
Go for glass: Glass pieces of furniture are a fraction of the cost of pieces that are made of wood. Glass coffee or dining tables can help to create an open, airy feel.
Purchase quality large pieces:
If you can afford it, try to buy one or two high quality pieces that you intend to own for years. Some ideas of where to start include armoires or dressers, beds and sofas.
Consider leather: Leather if properly maintained can be long lasting and add an element of maturity to a space.
Purchase inexpensive artwork:
Artwork can really help to make sure a space feels complete. Framed art tends to look
more expensive. Some ideas for inexpensive art include framing pieces of fabric, posters, calendars and even post cards.
Frame photographs:
Whether they are from a vacation or your collection, framed black and white photographs can be both interesting and mature.
Add mirrors: Mirrors can help to open a space and act as windows.