A few easy ways to decorate your apartment on a budget.

Decorating your first apartment can be tricky, but there are a few simple ways you can really make your new place feel like home, without breaking the bank. It is possible to have a trendy space on a budget, and by incorporating a few small things into your plan, you will be able to enjoy your home even more

DONT BE AFRAID OF COLOR

Color is a great way to spruce up a new apartment without breaking the bank. Before you start painting, you should ask permission from your landlord and once you’ve got the ok, the next step should be to choose color swatches to view in your space. Color always changes through out the day and lighting plays a major factor in how it will look. Sometimes landlords will be nice enough to pay for the paint if you are willing to do the labor. I find that even painting one wall an ‘accent’ color can make a difference. Lastly, I would choose a simple white color for the trim and doors.

Photo via ANNA O DESIGN

Photo via RH

AVOID CLUTTER IN SMALL SPACES

Small spaces can get cluttered fairly quickly with knick knacks and other small items. One thing you can do is group small items together, like candles or books, in specific areas throughout the room to highlight and draw attention. Keep it sweet and simple. Focus on keeping rooms uncluttered and centered around a clear purpose. Don’t worry about not having exactly the pieces you want right away. You can always add as you go along.

SAVE SPACE

Try saving space by using certain items for dual purposes. For example, an ottoman can be utilized as a coffee table and, when extra seating is necessary, as a place for guests to sit. Of course, when neither is necessary, feel free to relax with your feet up on it as well. Another space-saving trick I like to do is positioning a desk against a wall where you would normally have an entertainment unit, and install your flat screen above. Now you have created double use of your desk.

Photo via ANNA O DESIGN

RUG ON RUGS

Rugs are also a great way to bring balance, color and depth to any room. In addition, you can use an area rug to spruce up that less than lovely carpeting you inherited in a rental space. Show off your design sense by selecting a rug that's expresses your design style or you could even mix and match styles, make it yours.

Photo via sculptures

ADD ART & ACCESSORIES YOU LOVE

By adding art work & accessories to your space, you're able to give it your own personal touch. Dress up your walls and furniture with art work, sculptures, table lamps, books, pillows, flower, etc.

Photo via Minted

GET A GREEN THUMB

I love houseplants and flowers! Fresh, green houseplants are a very easy way to make your house a home. Adding greenery almost anywhere can really make a difference, and sometimes, it’s just what you need.

Photo via West Elm

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