Hi friends, D-Money here and we have a CTK Guest Post for you today! I’d like to introduce you to our favorite new design blogger, Courtney of Sunday’s Arrow.
She’s here to give you some killer tips for creating a home that feels really good … even in a tiny, expensive, NYC apartment and even on a tiny, not-so-expensive budget.
I mean, that’s a challenge for all of us, right? We want our homes to feel like homes but, we don’t really want to invest the time and money to get them there, since we’re probably leaving soon anyway….
Take it away Courtney.
Hi friends!
Let’s face it, renting an apartment can be such a temporary thing, especially here in NYC. Your spacial needs, rent increases and roommate situation (or significant other for that matter) can change in a New York Minute.
Between the 12-month leases, outdated parquet floors, boring white walls and landlord restrictions, taking the time to decorate might not feel like it’s worth the trouble.
But I love a good challenge and I’m a big believer in making your space feel personal. After all, you’re probably paying a pretty penny to live there, so why not make it a beautiful reflection of you, a place that feels good to come home to, even if it is temporary?
Here are my top four, go-to tips for instantly upgrading any apartment without breaking the bank.
#1. Pillows, pillows, pillows
If you’ve visited my blog, it’s easy to see that I am obsessed with pillows. They are by far my favorite, quick and affordable way to add personality to any room. Pillows and covers are generally sold separately, which can be expensive but, investing in a set of core pillows can go a long way. Once you have them, you can then snag covers rather inexpensively and switch them out based on your mood, the season or whenever you get bored.
#2. Frames
Sometimes painting your walls isn’t an option, or it might not be worth it when you’re renting (especially if you’ll just have to paint the walls back before you move). Gallery walls are a great alternative. They are a perfect way to display your favorite photographs, artwork or prints, and will instantly make a room feel more inviting and personal.
Frames and prints don’t have to be expensive either. I love to scour Society6 for original artwork at very affordable prices, visit thrift shops for unique prints and frames, and to print my own photographs, especially from my travels. (To learn more about different ways to display travel photos throughout your home, check out my post here.)
Gallery walls can seem like a big undertaking, but if you’re patient and embrace the curation process, the results can be very rewarding … and beautiful!
#3. DIY Artwork
I love art. I love art I can’t afford. And when I moved into my last apartment, I had a big space above my bed that needed to be filled. I couldn’t find any affordable artwork I liked and I didn’t have the budget to splurge. With some help and inspiration from my , I made my own. Don’t worry, your last name doesn’t have to be Picasso for this one (I seriously just painted lines!). All it takes is a vision, a white canvas, some acrylic paint, a brush and some masking tape. With the total budget of $40, I was pretty happy with the result and didn’t feel so bad knowing it might not work in my next place!
#4. Greenery
One of the best ways to liven up any space (literally) is by adding some greenery.
Potted plants are a naturally beautiful and healthy way to create a calming environment that will automatically enhance any room or mood!
Now I know what you’re thinking “but I’ll kill them!” and I can totally relate, but I’ve learned you don’t need a green thumb to own plants, you just need to find the right plant match for you.
For me, because of my busy lifestyle, plants that are low maintenance, like cacti and succulents, have become my best friends. And the best part is picking out a cute little home for these plants to live in.
I gravitate toward painted or geometric, ceramic planters and I love to mix and match, especially with glass and wood. Etsy is a great resource for affordable and one-of-a-kind planters, so check out some of my favorites here. And if you’re missing a green thumb like me, take this short quiz from Better Homes & Gardens to find your best indoor plant match.
The instant upgrades don’t have to end here, folks.
A few of my other favorite ways to add character to my space include:
- changing out hardware on cabinets, doors, and light switch covers
- layering textures in the form of rugs and throws
- and making sure that the lighting is just right
I would love to hear what ideas you all have too! How do you make your space more personal and inviting? Leave a comment below!
Product Sources: Nate Berkus Metallic Triangle Decorative Pillow || John Robshaw Textiles Diwan Decorative Pillow || Pottery Barn Kilim Pillow Cover || Nate Berkus Metallic Stud Pillow || Ikea Black Frame || Bed Bath & Beyond Gallery 7-Piece Frame Set || Pier1 Wooden Gallery Frames || Serena Lily Woven Raffia Frames || Society6 Framed Art Print || Anthropologie Blocked Planter || Dana Bechert Shoulder Planter || Wapa Studio Colorful Porcelain Planters
Main Image sources: Pinterest
If you’re interested in following Courtney for more design inspo, check her out on social media here:
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