Does your living room look dull and you don’t want people to see it? We have tips on how to turn it expensive but on a budget.
Other than the kitchen, the living room is the most important room in the home. It’s basically where life happens. It’s where you entertain guests, where you spend lazy evenings or binge-watch movies. Additionally, in most floor plans, one of the first spaces you see upon entering your home.
Don’t you want it to look luxurious? We know so. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a large of shillings to make it look like you spent a lot of money. We have researched and discovered some ways you can spice up the living room without breaking the bank. In some cases, you won’t need to spend a thing! You’re welcome.
1. Create a layered lighting concept
Lighting is one of the most important concepts in a space, and one that’s often overlooked.
You want to have a variety of light sources to add depth to the room. But you don’t have to empty your wallet to go glam on lighting. You could also hang a great chandelier in place of a typical bulb.
Another cheap trick that won’t require any labour: Try plug-in lamps. Placing these next to furniture arrangements can be an affordable way to update a space without bearing the cost of rewiring a wall.
2. Invest in textiles
One of the easiest and best ways to dress up a room is with great pillows. But they can be so expensive
Don’t fear—there’s a workaround: Go online, there are affordable thrift accounts that sell unique pillows for as low as Kes 250, buy 4 and see your living room transform.
Extra credit: Find a cheap curtain then go to a tailor and have them turn them into pillow covers. The curtains can be found in any marker like Gikomba or Ngara at cheap prices.
An oversized, beautiful throw(blanket/duvet) casually draped in the room will make it feel more luxurious and expensive.
3. Make sure your curtains hit the floor
A good window treatment can add an instant luxe factor to a room. But there’s one cardinal rule: Never, ever buy curtains that are too short. They look so cheap.
Moreover, make sure to measure the window before you head to the store. You could also make your own on the cheap side by buying fabric and having a tailor sew it.
You’ve got beautiful, billowy drapes for less than Kes 1000 each in Gikomba.
4. Invest in large-scale art
An oversize, attention-grabbing piece of art can both spark conversation and imbue your living space with an instantly cool, luxe feel.
Check out secondhand shops or art online accounts. If you’re on a budget, get creative and do it yourself, find DIY videos online. In addition, you can get a frame, then frame an unexpected object or black and white photos you can print yourself
Don’t be afraid of mixing your antique-looking finds with your newer pieces—it’ll all come together for a collected, luxe vibe. We promise.
5. Roll out a large carpet
Small carpets make your house smaller. Opt for a larger, less expensive rug over a smaller, expensive one—especially if you have kids.
When your room feels bigger and airier due to a larger rug, it will feel more expensive automatically. And just because it looks luxe doesn’t mean it can’t be durable. Jute rugs are a great option and can often be found at discount home furnishings stores.
Try these tips and tell us what you think. Connect with Kenya Homes on our socials and tell find out more information on improving your home: bit.ly/3065mxi.