Bedroom Makeover Without Breaking The Bank

Just recently I was asked for advice on how to give a bedroom a make-over without spending a fortune.

I thought to share these tips on the process with you. Please notice that I did call it a process, because that is what design/décor is all about. It can be a really fun and fulfilling process:

GET THE PICTURE: Let’s start by saying that you need to formulate a picture or image of what you want to achieve right from the start. Spend a bit of time paging through décor mags, blogs and shops. Let your imagination just run wild, because coming out of this first step, you will eventually get the colours, patterns and styles that settle well with you. If you are up for even more fun, then take all the images; put them together to make a mood board. Even more fun is finding ribbons, buttons, bits and bobs that tell the story of your colours. Mix them in with the images to give your mood board life.

The Brisbane home of Helen and Chris Bayley – love splashes of bright colour in this white painted bedroom | via http://thedesignfiles.net/2013/06/brisbane-home-helen-and-chris-bayley-and-family/

A pop of bright colour | via http://www.houzz.com/photos/2357509/Eclectic-Bedroom-eclectic-bedroom-dc-metro

COLOUR: Try to keep your basic colour palette of the room neutral – you will have plenty of time to throw in great big dollops of colour with the accessories. By the way- did you know that the trendsetters have indicated that WHITE IS THE NEW BLACK!! “What!” you say – yes I have noticed it as well. A big move to white walls and white furniture, but what makes it more appealing than before, is that into the white schemes, strong colour and texture is added. The white is your blank canvas so to speak.

Adore this striking headboard paired with bright white bedding which allows the pillows to pop | via http://blog.westelm.com/2013/07/31/before-after-master-bedroom-by-jana-bek/

ACCESSORIES: Make sure that you have at least two items /accessories that are strong in texture and colour, such as scatters, wooden furniture –maybe a headboard, or wood framed easy chair, with a funky patterned scatter on it. Preferably a geometric pattern.

This bed, layered with a quilted coverlet, neutral bedding and cable-knit throw pillows, screams comfort while the mirrored furniture and chandelier adds opulence | via http://houseandhome.com/design/photo-gallery-serene-bedroom-makeover?page=1

Buttoned headboard with cheerful floral scatters gives a feminine country feel | via http://www.housetohome.co.uk/bedroom/picture/buttoned-headboard

BED: The Bed – needs layers of scatter cushions at the top and layers of bed throws at the foot. The mix of scatters should include different sizes; different fabrics /textures and different patterns. It is the blend of colours that will tie them together. The Headboard – Check out the retails outlets that sell inexpensive buttoned headboards – they are still very much out there.

Amazing what a beautiful piece of art can do to you bedroom setting | via http://www.pinterest.com/pin/72972456432466893/

GLAM: A luxurious full length mirror or print with an ornate frame adds that decadent detail. Definitely can have at least one seriously glam or decadent item, just for that hint of Hollywood.

MONEY: Make sure that you have set yourself a budget and stick with it. This is one of the first things you should do as a budget will give you a guideline as to what you can and can’t afford. Remember to be realistic.

Love the child-like feel of this coral and aqua coloured Scandinavian bedroom | via http://www.idesignarch.com/exquisite-scandinavian-apartment-interiors/

GO SHOP: Ok, now for the best part – you have the picture of what your room is going to look like, it is time to step out to source and select your wares, paint, wallpaper, fabrics etc. Take the time to shop around for the best buy – don’t settle for the first thing you see! More Fun!!