Decorating Your First Home On A Budget

Congratulations! You’ve found the perfect place to begin your next chapter of life. Moving into your first home is a huge and exciting milestone in life…or it was before you started adding up what all that new furniture and decor is going to cost you. If you’re like me, you want your new space to look perfect ASAP. But if there’s anything I learned in my own process, it’s to relax and slow down. Decorating takes time, and you don’t need to get everything all at once. Choosing how to decorate a new space is overwhelming, but with some creativity and resourcefulness, you can transform your space into your very own personalized sanctuary without draining your wallet. Here are some savvy, budget-friendly ideas and DIY hacks to bring the magic into your new place.

1. Embrace Secondhand Finds

One person's pre-loved item can be your treasure. Thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces (FB marketplace) often hide gems waiting to be discovered. A couple thrift stores that I’ve heard have great finds for home decor are Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store in DTLA, and Out of the Closet, which has several locations in LA.

2. DIY Artwork

Finding the perfect artwork for your new home can be difficult, not to mention expensive! Creating your own pieces can be a fun way to add a personal touch to your walls - and you don’t have to be an artist to do so! Splatter paintings or abstract pieces don’t require too much talent, and can look really unique. You can also use plaster to make some textured canvas art.

3. Swap and Rearrange

Sometimes, a new perspective is all a space needs. Experiment with rearranging furniture or swapping items between rooms. That old rug might look like a new centerpiece in your living room, and your bedroom mirror could add character to your hallway.

4. Repurpose and Upcycle

Maybe you have some items that seem outdated or worn - but you don’t need to trash them! A little thinking outside of the box can allow you to breathe new life into them. An old ladder can become a unique bookshelf, while mason jars can transform into candle holders.

5. Focus on Fabrics

Switching out the fabrics in your home can make all the difference and instantly refresh a room. Consider swapping out your curtains, throw pillows, rugs, and bathroom towels. Adding a new color scheme is a fun and easy way to change up the look and feel of your home. You can find budget-friendly options at stores like HomeGoods.

6. Bring in Greenery

Plants not only add a touch of nature but also purify the air and elevate the aesthetics of any space. Personally, I opt for high quality faux plants (I have a faux olive tree in my living room that I love), and then every so often I’ll go to Trader Joes to get some florals to liven up the place. If you do prefer live plants, consider low-maintenance plants like succulents.

8. Adjust the Lighting

Good lighting can transform the ambiance of a room. Explore inexpensive lighting options like string lights, LED candles, or floor lamps to create a cozy atmosphere without a hefty price tag. You could even get some fun lamps to add some personality to your space.

9. Temporary Decor

If you’re renting, you may not want to or be able to make any permanent changes. Removable wallpaper is a perfect temporary solution that is damage-free and easy to apply. You can also buy wall decals, and even get a peel-and-stick tile backsplash!

Yes, decorating can be stressful but try to have fun and enjoy the process! Remember, it's not about the amount spent but the creativity and love you pour into your home. So experiment, mix and match, and let your space evolve over time as you discover what truly makes it feel like your own sanctuary.

Happy decorating!