MY MEDALLION
Decorating your first apartment should be fun. It’s a chance to make the space your own and to express your unique personality—and you don’t need to spend a fortune to do it. It’s also a great opportunity to be creative and come up with some clever design solutions that will make everyday living easier, more comfortable, and true to your style. Here are our top suggestions for how to decorate your first apartment on a budget.
Ask For Hand-Me-Downs From Friends And Family
Take advantage of your network of family and friends and put the word out that you’re looking for pieces to furnish your new apartment. It can help to be specific here so that you’re not inundated with stuff you can’t use. If you’re in need of a desk, a loveseat, a pair of lamps, or a small kitchen table, say so; many people have items they’d be happy to part with and it can save you from having to buy new. We recommend making a list of your exact needs first so you can focus on getting the most important pieces.
Hit The Thrift Shop, Yard Sale, Or Online Marketplaces
There is lots of great second-hand furniture to be found, so be sure to invest a little time in the search. You’d be surprised at what you can find in local thrift shops, and most pieces are very inexpensive. Soon the weather will be warming up and yard sales will start popping up; visit these too to see what affordable treasures you can score. Online marketplaces are also worth keeping tabs on. Often there are a lot of people in your own neighbourhood who have home furnishings they’re looking to give away.
Update Older Pieces Of Furniture
If you come across any pieces of good, solid furniture that are slightly imperfect or that aren’t exactly your style, don’t despair. You can transform these pretty quickly and easily with a fresh coat of paint and swapping out existing hardware for more modern fixtures. A couple of hours spent on these light DIY tasks can work wonders on tables, chairs, dressers, and cabinets, giving them a whole new life and making them look custom. Don’t be afraid to put your own touch on your latest finds—express yourself and have some fun!
Look For Multipurpose Pieces
Stretch your budget even further by shopping strategically and looking for pieces that can do double duty. Multifunctional pieces can be used in a myriad of ways, and they tend to be items you use over and over again. For example, an inexpensive garden stool can double as a side table beside a chair, couch, or bed; as extra seating when guests are over, and as a plant stand. A bar cart or a rolling storage or supplies cart can be used when entertaining to serve food or drinks, as a plant stand, a side table, or a bedside table. You’re sure to find tons of uses for these flexible decor pieces.
Buy An Outdoor Rug
If you want to warm up your space, soften the overall look, or just introduce a little colour, pattern, and texture, a rug can do just the trick. Indoor rugs can come with a big price tag though, so consider an outdoor rug instead. Outdoor rugs are durable, come in a wide range of sizes, won’t fade in bright sunlight, and are easy to clean. Even if you just add a small rug here or there, it can help make your space feel more homey and personalized—and it will also feel great underfoot.
Thankfully there’s no need to blow the budget when decorating your first apartment; you can still create a great space that has enviable style. Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to follow the Medallion blog for more great home decorating tips.
