Budget-Friendly Living Rooms

Pinch pennies, not style. Get inspired with 8 money-smart decorating ideas for living rooms.
By: Chelsey Bowen
Related To:
Living Rooms Design 101

Reuse What You Have

When designer Sarah Richardson removed pine boards from one room in her summer house, she found the perfect place to reuse the boards: the guest bedroom's walls. She also updates an antique dresser with a yellow-and-white paint job.

Do It Yourself

A spilt bucket of paint turned into a happy accident for Rate My Spacer KarenSpirit. She put her DIY skills to the test and replaced her ruined carpet with pre-finished hardwood floors for only $300.

Create a Focal Wall

Save money by focusing your efforts on one wall that makes a statement. Designer Emily Henderson uses a black-and-white toile wallpaper to create instant impact in this entryway.

Smart Shopping is Key

By shopping at consignment stores, Overstock.com and discount home accessories stores, like Homegoods, Rate My Spacer mfranc pulls together an eclectic living room of designer quality without the expensive price tag.

Salvage It

Visit local salvage yards or even places that are going out of business. Rate My Spacer whimages took advantage of salvaged materials from an old cigar bar to transform her fireplace into a focal point.

Get Out the Paint

A dark paneled living room is completely updated with a fresh coat of cream paint. Rate My Spacer mysweetsavannah completes the transformation from rustic lodge to cozy cottage with slipcovered furniture and weather-worn accessories.

Artwork on a Dime

Scour flea markets, estate sales and eBay for inexpensive artwork. Designer Emily Henderson creates a gallery display with her flea market finds.

Buy Antiques and Update

Buy classic pieces with good bones and reupholster them. Rate My Space just-beachy purchased an antique Duncan Phyfe sofa on Craigslist and reupholstered it in an oyster chenille fabric.

Shop This Look

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