How to Decorate a Living Room on a Budget

Here are a few different ways to provide a new look to your living room. It may be that you are just starting out in a new home, or that you would like to revive an old tired space, but decorating any room, and especially the living room, can be a real challenge. It can be even more of a challenge when you only have small budget to work with.

The biggest hurdle that you face is how to get a look that expresses your unique personality, without spending a fortune. However, by looking at the items you already have in a different way, you should be able to create a cozy family room for almost next to nothing. Below are a number of decorating tips which should help to turn a drab living room into a warm and friendly place for everybody to gather.

1. Paint

Paint one wall using your favorite color, and make this the focal point of the room. Hang a piece of interesting art on the wall (it could even be something you have made yourself). Place a nice piece of furniture on that side of the room to provide even more accent to the wall. If you want to add extra impact to the wall, then why not use a rubber stamping technique? Although it is extremely easy to do, rubber stamping can look very impressive when finished.

2. Use an Area Rug

This is a great way to define a conversation area, so you need to look for one which will complement the décor of the room. Rather than laying it straight, put it at an angle underneath your coffee table, or in a central location where the seating is situated. For a comfy, inviting look, just add some large cushions.

3. Pictures & Mirrors

Choose mirrors or pictures that compliment your personality. When hanging a mirror, place it in a position where it will reflect either a nice view, or an interesting architectural element of the room. Including a mirror in a room also creates the illusion of more space.

4. Lighting

Replace lamps, as these are one thing that can ‘outdate’ your room. If you are unable to replace the whole lamp, then just consider replacing the lampshade instead.

5. Coffee Table

If your coffee table is looking tired or scratched, then cover it with a small decorative runner, or if you want to be a bit more adventurous, then why not tile the top of it with mosaic tiles or colored glass instead.

6. Rearrange the Furniture

Think outside the box and put your furniture at an angle. By doing this you are giving a whole new look to the layout of your room, and it is much more inexpensive than buying new furniture.

Pay attention to the floor space and use it to your advantage. You can get some scatter cushions and use these as additional seating. It will provide your living room with a much more relaxed atmosphere.

7. Plants

Use plants to add freshness and impact to the décor of your room, or hide flaws.

Finally, if you do not need it, remove it. You can either donate it to your local charity, or ask a family member or friend if they could use it. By de-cluttering a space, you will not only be providing yourself with more room, but you will also be gaining a whole new look.