Designer Shea McGee shares her budgeting approach when crafting a room: she categorizes items into different price levels.
Designing a home can be an overwhelming, expensive task, especially if you're not a seasoned designer yourself. Knowing where to spend and where to save can feel like navigating a minefield. But fear not! Interior designer Shea McGee has taken to Instagram to address everyone's design dilemmas and, in her new 'office hours' series, has started by answering the question we all want to know: how to decorate a home on a budget.
The secret? Knowing exactly which items are worth investing in for longevity and which decor pieces can still look stunning without breaking the bank. Shea advises focusing on items in price tiers, especially in the living room and bedroom, where she suggests investing in key focus pieces.
'A sofa and your headboard are where I would invest,' says Shea. 'Make sure your sofa is the highest quality you can get, and make sure your bed is a bed frame, not just a headboard that you lean against the wall - try to get the best you can.'
Your sofa and bed are essential pieces that you use every day and are centerpieces of these rooms. Investing in quality furniture for these items ensures that they stand the test of time while providing comfort and style.
In terms of saving, Shea recommends opting for more affordable items for accents around the room, such as rugs, accent tables, and coffee tables. These items can be easily swapped out over time as trends change, and high-quality designs can often be found at more reasonable prices.
For example, you can save money on rugs by choosing from a variety of affordable, stylish options, such as this design from Loloi. When shopping for accent tables, look for pieces in solid wood, rather than plywood or cork, to ensure they won't age poorly. Vintage or second-hand stores can also be great resources for finding quality-made furniture at lower prices.
By following Shea's advice and investing in key items while saving on accents, you can create a beautiful, functional living space on a budget. So, start decorating with confidence and enjoy the process as you create your perfect home!
If you're embarking on a larger project, we have plenty more tips on where to spend and save in a home remodel. And, of course, be sure to follow Shea McGee on Instagram for more expert advice on designing beautiful homes on a budget!
(Enrichment Data: Investing in larger, essential furniture pieces such as the sofa, headboard, and bed frame while saving on smaller decorative pieces like rugs, tables, and wall decor can help create a functional living space on a budget.)
Investing in the interior design of a home doesn't necessarily mean spending a fortune. Focus on essential pieces like the sofa, headboard, and bed frame, ensuring they are of high quality for longevity and comfort. On the other hand, decorative accents such as rugs, tables, and wall art can be purchased at more affordable prices, allowing for flexibility and the opportunity to change designs as trends evolve.
