1BHK or studio apartments are the go-to rental choice for young professionals across the country. Such apartments are easy to maintain, provide enough privacy to the resident and the rent is easy on the pockets. But what are the possibilities if you wish to deck up your 1BHKor studio a little bit? Is it possible in such a compact space? Is it too difficult to balance aesthetics with spatial concerns? Well, set your worries aside because we got you covered. Read on to find out how to make a home out of your 1BHK or studio without burning a hole in your pocket.
See also: Hostel room decoration ideas to make the most of space
Things to keep in mind while setting a budget
While undertaking any project on a budget, there are some things you need to be mindful of to avoid any unwanted expenses. Here is a simple guide you can refer to while setting a decoration budget for your 1BHK or studio to ensure a smooth process:
Define your priorities
Once you decide to decorate your space, the first step is to identify the key areas which need your attention. Make sure you have the expenses of essential items such as furniture, bedding and kitchen essentials covered before allocating funds for decorative items merely for the aesthetics.
Determine a total budget
Set an upper limit for the expenses by taking into account all the factors that would require expenditure, including furniture, decor, lighting, painting and makeover expenses. Try not to exceed the set limit once you start with the decoration process.
Break down the budget
Once you come up with a lump sum figure, break it down into smaller, more manageable categories for better understanding. Not only will this help you allocate funds more efficiently, it will also act as a checklist to ensure that all areas of your decor project have been covered.
Research prices
For a more realistic understanding of the budget, make sure to obtain an idea of the market prices of the goods and services you plan to avail. Research the prices of furniture and decor items while setting up a budget to facilitate a more informed process of decision making.
Prioritise quality
While on a budget, it is recommended to prioritise quality over quantity. Go for durable pieces instead of investing in low-quality items available in plenty at a lower cost. While prioritising quality might incur initial expenses, they are beneficial in saving money in the long run as they do away with the need of frequent replacement.
Consider DIY projects
DIY projects are a good way to get creative while also saving money. Moreover, it adds a personal touch to your space. Nevertheless, it is important to assess your skills and the time and effort required for such projects before deciding to take them up.
Contingency funds
Regardless of how accurate you are while setting a budget, some unexpected expenses are bound to show up in the process. Therefore, it is smart to set aside a small part of your budget as a contingency fund to cover unforeseen expenses. These might include repairs, additional supplies or last minute plan changes.
Shop smart
While shopping, keep an eye out for sales, discounts and available second hand options. Go for thrift stores, online marketplaces and clearance sections to bag some deals on trendy stuff that are easy on your pockets.
Plan in phases
With a limited budget in hand, it is best to plan the decor in phases instead of doing it all at once. Focus on one area at a time to ensure more efficient allocation of funds and avoid large and unaffordable upfront costs.
Best ideas to decorate your 1BHK on budget
Wondering where to get started on your journey to decorate your 1BHK or studio? Here are some simple ideas you can try out on a budget:
DIY artwork
Here’s a way to get artsy and create something for your space from scratch! Get your hands on some canvases and create artworks using simple geometric designs and patterns with acrylic paint. Another great DIY option is to repurpose an old fabric by framing it and creating textile art.
Thrift store finds
Visit thrift stores and look for old pieces of furniture that are still in usable condition and can be transformed with minimal modifications. Old dressers, coffee tables and bookshelves from such stores can add a stylish touch to your space with as little as a fresh coat of paint.
Upcycling furniture
Old wooden chairs and tables can be sanded and painted to achieve a fresh and modern look. Go for mismatched furniture and unify them using a cohesive colour palette to retain the rustic charm of old furniture with a boho feel.
Curtain magic
Instead of purchasing curtains, go for the more affordable option of buying pieces of fabric in colours and patterns of your choice. You can then sew them into curtains or use fabric glue or iron-on hemming tape for the desired results.
Creative lighting
Hang string lights from the ceiling or drape them across walls to create a dreamy and cosy ambience. Additionally, buy some lamps from thrift stores and modify them with a fresh coat of paint for a new shade and a personalised touch.
Temporary wall decals
For smaller spaces, it is recommended to choose removable wall stickers that match the aesthetic of your space, especially in rented apartments. Decals offer an affordable and customisable solution for murals, accent walls and faux headboards.
DIY shelving
Use wooden crates or cinder blocks and planks to build unique shelves for an aesthetic and functional storage option. You can easily paint the wood to match your colour scheme and arrange them on your walls in an artistic way.
Multi-functional furniture
Invest in smart and space saving furniture options such as sofa beds for guests and coffee tables with hidden storage for books. Such pieces of furniture serve more than one purpose to maximise space and functionality.
Greenery
Succulents, snake plants and pothos are some affordable and low-maintenance indoor plants you can purchase for a fresh feel to your space. Additionally, you can easily find a host of pots, containers and planters in thrift stores that you can paint or personalise according to your decor.
Personalised textiles
You can make your own throw pillows by repurposing old pieces of fabric. Combine your sewing skills with a dash of fabric paint and markers here and there for a boho and personalised result. Similarly, if you are up for a larger project, you can consider making a rug from repurposed fabric.
Gallery wall
Buy some frames of various shapes and sizes from thrift stores and paint them in a unified colour. You can now use them to make a unique gallery wall displaying a mix of personal photographs and other prints.
Peel-and-stick wallpaper
Want to refresh your wall colour but budget holding you back? We might have something for you. Go for peel-and-stick wallpapers to add a stylish touch to your walls and accents. These are available in a variety of colours and textures to choose from and can be easily replaced without damaging the wall structure.
Read also: How to decorate studio apartment?
FAQs
What are some budget-friendly options for 1BHK decor?
DIY artwork, thrift stores, upcycling furniture and using temporary stickers for walls are some cost-effective solutions you can adopt to deck up your 1BHK.
What is the best way to prioritise expenses when decorating a 1BHK on budget?
While setting a budget, identify the essential expenses such as those on furniture and kitchen essentials. Ensure a practical approach to spending by allocating funds to these areas before moving on to decor items.
Can I find affordable furniture and decor items for a 1BHK?
You can easily find affordable deals on furniture and decor items in thrift stores, online marketplaces and garage sales. You can also consider DIY and upcycling existing furniture to avoid breaking the bank.
How should I allocate funds for lighting and painting?
While allocating funds for lighting and painting, research the market prices and prioritise quality over quantity. If chosen wisely, a cohesive colour scheme and lighting can go a long way in transforming the vibe of your space.
Can I incorporate greenery into my budget-friendly decor plan?
You can choose low-maintenance indoor plants such as succulents and snake plants and plant them in personalised pots and containers from thrift stores.
Why is a contingency fund important while setting a budget for decorating my 1BHK?
While setting a budget, it is recommended to keep a small portion aside as a contingency fund. This allows for easy coverage of unforeseen expenses and last-minute plan changes.
Can I make my 1BHK decor budget-friendly without compromising on style?
Absolutely! To strike a balance, make sure to prioritise quality over quantity, shop from sales and second-hand options and decorate in phases to minimise upfront costs.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
