Decor Hacks to Upgrade Your Apartment on a Budget

After months of searching, you finally signed the lease on your new apartment. You have the keys and are ready to spend your first few days in your new place. There’s only one problem:  After paying the security deposit and dealing with other moving expenses, you’re short on cash for decor.

Fortunately, there are a few ways to make your apartment look like your own without breaking the bank. A little creativity can transform your bland apartment into a space that’s both functional and stylish. Here are some simple decor hacks that’ll help you take your space to the next level.

Paint the Furniture

One you’re in your apartment, you might have a new vision of what you want your decor to look like, but this doesn’t mean you have to toss out all your furniture. Pick up some furniture paint or wood stain to transform your worn pieces into something new and unique. This is also a great way to repurpose roadside or thrift store furniture.

Take Advantage of Area Rugs

Even the simplest rooms look completely different with an area rug. These pieces are versatile and can last for years. Whether you prefer neutrals, bright colors, or patterns, an area rug can make a space look more put together. Pick up a bold rug at your local vintage store or discount home store to add to your living room. Add smaller rugs in your kitchen, entryway, and bedroom.

Second-Hand Stores Are Like Gold Mines

You don’t need to shop at high-end stores to create an apartment you love. In fact, you can find tons of high-quality furniture at second-hand shops. Buy second-hand art and repurpose the frames for your own pieces or purchase a few used vases, baskets, or mirrors to add a unique twist to your apartment. By shopping around at second-hand stores, you can find one-of-a-kind pieces that no one else has. Who knows, these repurposed items might become your favorite possessions.

Print Your Own Photos

Expensive wall art may not in your budget, but there are still a few ways to spruce up your walls without spending a fortune. Printing your own photos online is affordable and will add a fun personal touch to your walls. Do some research on the cheapest canvas prints. Then you can proudly display your travel photos or family portraits on your walls. Printed photos can also spruce up your shelves, dresser, and bedside table.

Use Open Shelving

If you’re looking for ways to add color to your apartment, try open storage. An open shelf in your kitchen can display your dishware and make it part of the decor. Use funky-looking jars to store and show off your used cooking oil collection or baskets to hold your fruits and veggies. An open layout will keep your shelves looking sophisticated and organized. You can also use this same idea on your bookshelves. Keep baskets and decorative bowls on the shelf to organize your items while adding style to your home.

Know When to Splurge

Decorating on a budget doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on quality. When you see a splurge piece that you really love, consider making the purchase. A budget replacement might just fall apart in a few years anyway, but the quality piece will last. Remember that you are building a collection of pieces to transfer into your future apartments. So, if you see a couch, dresser, or rug that speaks to you, don’t write it off just yet.

Budget-conscious decorating takes creativity, flexibility, and time. By thinking about all of your options and thoughtfully choosing each decor element, you can create a space that represents your personality. Even if your taste changes with time, you will have the DIY and thrifting skills necessary to adjust your decor without breaking the bank.