Low Cost, Big Impact: 10 Ways to Make a Statement on Budget

I love when a creative idea comes to life, especially on a budget. I came up with this list based on things I could actually picture myself doing that could be done at a reasonable cost. These 10 ways will make a big design impact in your home without breaking the bank - get ready to possibly use a little elbow grease. Don't worry - it will be totally worth it.

1. Do an Accent Wall

There are so many different roads to take with accent walls.

You could paint it all one bold color, choose a graphic wallpaper, 

stencil, or add wood pallets along a whole wall. The options are endless.

{grahamandco.com}

2. Re-purpose Furniture

Using any old door from a thrift shop or even your own home 

as a table or other type of furniture can make a big statement 

with a super creative touch.

{amberinteriordesign.com}

3. Paint the Stairs

I love all the photos I have seen of stairs being the star

of the home. I especially love ombre painted stairs, wallpaper on 

stairs and words/quotes put on stairs. Any of those options

will add so much interest to your home!

{simpledwellings.blogspot.com}

4. Spray Paint a Large Item 

Dressers, nightstands, beds, frames are all items that could

benefit from a fresh coat of paint in a pop of color. This side

table is the perfect example. 

{eclecticallyvintage.com}

5. Make Abstract Art

You don't have to be an artist to create abstract art. Danielle

Oakey created this piece of art just by using inexpensive paint

from the craft store, poster board, and a large Ikea frame. Don't

know where to start? - Check out the tutorial on her blog.

{danielleoakeyinteriors.blogspot.com}

6. Frame Wallpaper/Fabric

Have a favorite fabric or print that you love but don't know

where to put it? Frame it! Frames can be super cheap (like at Ikea)

and buying fabric and wallpaper by the yard can be inexpensive, too. 

Perfect for wall art.

{interiorstyledesign.tumblr.com}

7. Create Your Own Area Rug

There are many places you can find rug squares in different

colors and patterns. These ones are particularly from cb2 - I love 

how you really can create any look you want in any size that you need.

{cb2.com}

8. Make Your Own Headboard

I absolutely love the look of reclaimed wood pallets, especially as a 

stunning ceiling-high headboard. You can even create your own DIY 

headboard in fabric as well at a low cost. 

{britco.com}

9.Use Items in Unexpected Ways

Love this look of long shutters used as sliding doors. Such 

an eclectic and original look. I'd love to have this art studio!

{remodelista.com}

10. Change Your Knobs

It really is amazing how much of a difference changing

the knobs on a large piece of furniture makes. You can do this

for all of your kitchen cabinets as well including nightstands, doors, etc.

{littlebabygarvin.blogspot.com}

Have you seen or can think of any other creative ways to make a statement

on a budget? The options are truly endless - I'd love to know! 

Xo,

The Land of Knobs

It's amazing how such a small thing can make such a big impact. In this case - knobs. Especially when you want to create an original look but are on a tight budget, changing the knobs or pulls on an inexpensive piece of furniture is just the thing you need. Another great thing about it is that you can have the same piece of furniture and change the whole look by simply switching the knobs. This goes for kitchen cabinets, console tables, dressers, door knobs, etc. I'll show you how this simple step can change the whole look...

This is the console my boyfriend and I bought for our small apartment entryway - well, it doesn't really have an entryway but that is the feel we are going for by putting a console against the wall close to when you walk in - we chose the off-white finish because we also have white lacquer chairs in our dining area paired with a walnut finished mid-century table (pics to come!).  We haven't changed the knobs but it will happen in the near future.

Right now this console is on sale for $112.49 at Target. We really liked the simple look of it - except when we got it we found out it's really only one drawer that opens and not two - oops, it still fits our apartment great and the price was on point so it's a win. Here are some knobs I found that could really work with our decor and style (maybe more my style..I'm the stylist, anyway, right?)...

1 / Agate Knob - Light Gray / $9.99 / West Elm

2 / Black & White Stripe Knob / $8 / Anthropologie

3 / Brown Carved Wood Vine Knobs - Set of 2 / $7.98 / World Market

4 / Antler Melody Knob - Tusk / $14 / Anthropologie

5 / Carved Turquoise Knob / $6 or 2 for $10 / Urban Outfitters

I'm really loving #3 because of the shape and dark features against the off-white console. Thoughts? I'd love to know :) 

Xo,

Creating an Eclectic Space

Ever wonder how some designers are able to create a space that mixes design styles so well? Eclectic design allows the mix of one design style with others - modern, mid-century, industrial, vintage can all be placed together & the list goes on.  In essence, it creates the look that you have collected all of your items over time. However, there is a method to the madness - it's all about balance. You don't want to add too many different styles or the space will be overwhelming. Here are some rooms I've designed so you can see how this style just works. They are just as eclectic in style as they are in budget. I've mixed some budget-friendly pieces with items that are definitely worth the splurge.

This bedroom has a mix of boho chic, mid-century, transitional and modern. There are clean, modern lines in the bed paired with soft, round items in different styles. Yes, this room may be more on the girly side with the floral jute rug  but easily swap it out for a solid one and it can be gender neutral as well.

1 / Nate Berkus Metallic Window Panel 84"l / $24.99 / Target

2 / Nate Berkus Round Cage Table / $79.99 / Target

3 / Osborn 4 Poster Bed, Queen / $1,499 / Crate & Barrel

4 / Modernist Table Lamp / $179 / West Elm

5 / Penelope Nightstand Small - White / $199 / West Elm

6 / Marrakech Swing Chair / $229 / Urban Outfitters

7 / Heenalu Jute Rug 6'x9' / $299 / CB2

Glam meets rustic in this dining room. I chose a sparkly chandelier that makes a statement to pair with this rustic, reclaimed pine table. Pairing the table with leather captain chairs and more modern side chairs gives this space the ultimate eclectic look. Top it off with a colorful, global inspired rug and it's a win. 

1 / Quorra Chandelier / $362.60 / Joss & Main

2 / Willoughby Leather Chair - Ivory / $399 / West Elm

3 / Emmerson Dining Table - Reclaimed Pine 72" / $999 / West Elm

4 / Winsdor Overdyed Grove Turquoise Rug 5'x8' / $376 / Rugs USA

5 /  John Vogel Chairs / $299 / West Elm

Mid-century, modern, and industrial are a few of the main design styles in this living space that I chose. I love the mix of the industrial coffee table with the natural fiber jute rug. The tapered legs on the side table and sofa give it an edgy, mid-century touch that is just what the space needs. I added a pair of luxe velvet pillows in a bold color that gives the room a much needed color pop.

 1 / Atomic Matte Black Arc Floor Lamp / $299 / CB2

2 / Brushstroke Swirls Artwork / $249 / West Elm

3 / York Sofa - Grand / $1,499 / West Elm

4 / Magical Thinking Handquilt Velvet Pillow / $24 / Urban Outfitters

5 / Nate Berkus Black and Gold Accent Table / $69.99 / Target 

6 / Rubicon Jute Rug 5'x8' / $279 / West Elm

7 / Frame Round Coffee Table / $499 / Crate & Barrel

8 / Saunder Mud Cloth Ottoman / $249 / Urban Outfitters

9 / Moda Chair / $559 / Urban Outfitters

10 / Nate Berkus Zig Zag Fur Pillow / $29.99 / Target

Do you tend to stick to one style in your home or do you like to mix things up?? I'd love to know what you think about these eclectic looks. :) 

Xo,

Accent Tables Under $100

While searching the internet for inspiring home decor like I usually do, I couldn't help but notice all the fabulous options for accent tables & the best part is they are all reasonably priced at under $100! That's when it struck me to share some of my favorite finds. Whether you're re-doing a space in your home or redecorating for the spring, these accent tables will give a little personality to your home - as a nightstand in your bedroom, an end table in your living room or as an outdoor side table. Some may even come in more colors than shown so check them out - Enjoy!

Xo,

Stylish Lamps Under $75

Who doesn't love a lamp that's both stylish AND budget friendly?? I know it's hard to find an answer to that one which is why I put together 10 stylish & well priced lamps that suit a wide array of design styles. Whatever style you are looking for, I am sure you can find it in this list! I chose lamps under $75 because that's about half of a normal priced lamp. It's a perfect price point if you are looking to purchase one lamp for a desk or side table or two for a more symmetrical look. Get ready to be amazed that these are all under $75 - Enjoy! 

1. $69

This lamp has a beach-chic feel with an

 industrial touch.

4040 Locust Rope Table lamp

UrbanOutfitters.com

2. $64

A simple, stylish look perfect for any end table, 

console or nightstand.

Catalina Lighting Fluted Glass Table Lamp

Wayfair.com

3. $75

Mercury glass lamps are perfect if you are looking

 for something elegant and unique.

Teardrop Luxe Lamp

Pier1.com

4. $59

If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind look with 

style then this lamp is a winner.

Mitzi Table Lamp

LivingSpaces.com

5. $49

This rustic accent lamp acts as a source of light and artful 

decor with it's bronze base, seeded glass shade and industrial Edison bulb.

Libby Seeded Glass Edison Bulb Accent Lamp 

LampsPlus.com

6. $28

Love the linear look of this lamp and its ceramic, textured 

base provides an eclectic touch.

Threshold Ambient Table Lamp

Target.com

7. $60

This colorful lamp in a shade of Pantones Hemlock 

will brighten up any space.

Double Gourd Ceramic Table Lamp

JCPenny.com

8. $69

This grey ceramic lamp with an acrylic glass base has

the same look as a designer style lamp but at

a much affordable cost.

Arturo Table Lamp

LivingSpaces.com

9. $40

With its leather base and fabric shade, this lamp

will add style and sophistication to any space at a 

budget friendly price.

Elegant Designs Modern Leather Table Lamp

Wayfair.com

10. $30

You can create a cozy and stylish look with this lamp

 and its aluminum base and textile shade.

Klabb Table Lamp

Ikea.com

Now if you ever think that affording a stylish lamp or two is out of the question, think again. If I had to pick a favorite from this list it would have to be more than one because they are all so stylish, unique and reasonable. You can find each of the lamps by clicking on the link below them. Which lamp is your favorite?? 

Xo,

My Top Ten Favorite Pieces Less then $20!

For this post I came up with my top ten favorite accent pieces that are quite a steal at less than $20! Each item is fun and will give your home a sense of personality and an eclectic feel. For me, I especially love turquoise, ikat prints and anchors which I included in this list as well. Feel free to click on the link where I found each item to purchase one or browse more bang for your buck items!

1) Turquoise Painted Wooden Knobs, Set of 2 - A perfect way to add some personality and style to otherwise simple pieces of furniture.

    Worldmarket.com

$7.98

2) Short Skinny Mercury Vase - Any type of flowers would look great in this vase on your coffee or dining table or even on your entry way console - they come in all different sizes.

Westelm.com

$12.99

3) Acid Etched Letter - Would look great in a collage among some beautiful art and photography.

Urbanoutfitters.com

$12.99

4) Mini Jeweled Lantern - A cute, eclectic looking accent for your coffee table or atop your bathroom countertop. Comes in a variety of sizes - All you need is to purchase some tealights!

Pier1.com

$10.00

5) Serving Bowl in Turquoise - I love the look of ombre in my home, including my serving ware, too!

Ikea.com

$1.49

6) Ikat Pillow Cover 16"x16" - This price on this trendy patterned pillow is a true steal.

Etsy.com

$5.99

7) Acrylic Baby Easel - As a painter myself, I love the idea of this baby easel displaying a small piece of art or photography.

Cb2.com

$14.95

8) Aqua Mosaic Frame - A small home decor item but will surely give an eclectic feel and personal touch to your home.

Pier1.com

$14.95

9) Nate Berkus Indre Decorative Box - A little box perfect to throw in small items and make it appear less cluttered.

Target.com

$13.98

10) Chevron Anchor Paper Print - For a girl who loves anchors because it symbolizes growing up boating, I sure love this print - Just would need to buy the frame!

Ebay.com

$12.00

This list could go on and on but which one is your favorite? I'd love to know!

Xo,