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Decorating Small Spaces on Even Smaller Budgets

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calming nursery reveal - part of the dresser and mirror. All in small spaces
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his post, decorating for small spaces on even smaller budgets, is a little ode to where this blog started. I was on maternity leave with Sloane, and a few months before that, we had just bought our house. We had yet to get a handle on how much a child costs, and we had a much bigger mortgage than our previous one. Out of an abundance of caution, any decor and other updates I wanted to do around the house needed to be cost-effective. I also understand small living quarters. I've lived in studios, one-bedrooms, and laneway homes. Not to mention some of the rooms in our home are on the smaller side. We need to think outside the box to get these spaces looking beautiful and keep them on budget. So let's get into it!

Dining room shot of the dining table with plates bowls champagne flutes florals and a runner on it. Dining room shot of the dining table with plates bowls champagne flutes florals and a runner on it. Oversized mirror in the background and olive tree

Non-Negotiables for Decorating Small Spaces with Small Budgets

It doesn’t matter if you’re living in a cozy apartment or just trying to make the most of a compact room there are two tips I consider non-negotiables when decorating your spaces. The first tip is to plan. Whether you’re working with a big space or a small space – planning will make a huge difference in how you’re spending your money. I have a whole post on How to Decorate a Space if you’re interested. However, the critical part of that article is to create an inspiration board. It’ll help you learn what you need and what will work in your space. So you’re thoughtfully decorating your small spaces and saving money rather than needlessly making purchases. The other non-negotiable is to know how you use the space and try to work within it. For example, do you constantly leave your keys on the coffee table and laundry on the floor by the washing machine? Okay, we know we need to accommodate those quirks so let’s use decor to our advantage.

home office and guest room pictured is the home office space with a wooden desk, office chair, and dark green/bronze cabinetry behind. Small spaces

Key Tips for Decorating Small Spaces on Smaller Budgets

There are many ways to make your dollar go further in small spaces. First, see how you can combine your needs. Do you need extra storage? Let’s find an ottoman-style coffee table that opens so you can store things rather than buying a coffee table and a bunch of baskets. Next, think about everyday items you use. Are you a big cook with lots of cookbooks? Great, I found part of your kitchen counter decor. Look at what you have, what you use already, and see how that can translate into decor. Finally, think about things you need that will also make a space look bigger. First, you need a mirror- can you put a floor-length mirror somewhere to make your space look larger? Do you need curtains? Great! Let’s look into getting them (or making them!) a little wider than the window and installing them close to the ceiling. It may be worth a little more money to go the extra mile; those items also count as decor and will change the vibe of the space.

Where to Look For Decor When Decorating Small Spaces with a Small Budget

Now onto the fun part, where to get items when decorating small spaces with a small budget. My favourite tip for you is going to be DIY projects. There are so many fun and easy ones out there you can tackle. Think about the trendy paper mache bowls – $100+ at most retailers. Save some egg cartons and put in a little effort on your part then you’ve got yourself a paper mache bowl. That was free, assuming you’re buying eggs anyway. Honestly, DIYs are the easiest way to decorate without breaking the bank. Take my DIY pedestal planter as another fun example. Dollar Store finds can always be transformed. Thrift stores are another great place to look. Finally, don’t forget about Facebook Market Place. There are some gems to be found. But do not forget: you need to plan out your space so you know what you’re looking for. If you have a little extra in your budget, have a look at HomeSense or Target. I also love stalking a sale at the retailers I love.

I hope that helps! Sending you all the good decorating vibes I have. XO

a sweet small spaces bedroom with white furniture and floral wallpaper and a bunny lamp from a canadian home decor store

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