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5 Design Tips for Less than $250

Tuesday, June 02, 2009

By David Pett

1. Betty Hyde, ASID, of Ultimate Design Interiors, offers advice to spruce up a room on a budget.

   1. Paint - one of the cheapest ways to give your space a face-lift. Hyde recommends painting an accent wall in your favorite rich tone. Plus, you will save a few gallons by skipping the remaining walls.

2. 2. Recover old throw pillows. Hit your favorite fabric or craft store for a few yards in bright hues or fun patterns. Simple directions can be found there as well. Or, purchase already-completed pillow covers from your local home store, and slide the old guys in.

3. 3. Unmatched furniture? Paint all of the pieces the same color. For chairs, complete the project with matching seat cushions.

4. 4. Search for carpet remnants at flooring stores. Once you’ve found a scrap that matches your tastes, ask for finishing services. Most carpet stores can recommend someone who will add a border.

5. 5. A fresh set of dinner napkins can brighter your table – or, they can be used as valances. Simply hang them over a curtain rod so that they look like layered triangles. A new, decorative curtain rod will complete the look.

One final tip: DIY! Hyde notes that simple, inexpensive updates to existing spaces require just a little elbow grease and imagination. However, when you are ready for a complete style overhaul, it might be best to contact the experts. The American Society of Interior Designers San Diego chapter offers a list of local, certified interior at http://www.asidsandiego.org.

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