Design on a Budget

Whether redecorating your space or moving into a new home or apartment, it can become expensive — especially if you’re a design enthusiast. Keep it simple and budget friendly by shopping smart and putting some thought into your aesthetic.

Furnishing a house can be a bit different than filling your apartment. In a home, you can commit to more permanent pieces, heavier furniture and well-made designs because they may not be moving for quite a while. To save some money, consider redesigning some of your better pieces and ransacking your parents’ house (the stuff they’re willing to part with, of course) before really searching.

For the pieces you will inevitably need to buy, check out the long list of sale items on CB2. The modern and trendy, but functional designs go with nearly anything — think Crate&Barrel on a budget.

For apartment hunters, always shop sale first. Between Urban Outfitters, Ikea, Homegoods and furniture thrift stores in your area, you are bound to find everything you need without overspending on one impulse item.

Flea markets and yard sales can be a game changer for small designs and personal touches. You may not find the greatest couch, chair or dining room table, but you might find a few great pieces of art, oddities, throw rugs and various smaller items to exude your personality while staying within budget. Feel free to haggle a bit, especially for items you just want more than need. Think extra long and hard about that porcelain hand — yes it can hold your watches, but it may not stand the test of time.