Decorating a small living room doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a bit of creativity and these budget-friendly tips, you can transform your living space into a cozy and stylish area. Let’s dive into some practical ideas that you can start using today, even if you’re not an expert at living room decorating.
1. Declutter and Organize
Before you add anything new, start by clearing out any unnecessary items. A clutter-free room looks bigger and more inviting. Consider getting some storage containers or baskets to tidy up the random items.
Use baskets and boxes to organize things like remote controls, magazines, and other small items. These storage solutions can often be found at dollar stores or thrift shops, making them perfect for budget living room decorating.
If you have a lot of pictures hanging around, instead of displaying all your pictures in the living room, try spreading those keepsakes throughout your apartment instead of keeping them in one spot. Too much clutter in a small space can be overwhelming.
2. Shop Secondhand
One of the best ways to save money is by shopping secondhand. Visit thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Look for items like side tables, lamps, and chairs that you can spruce up with a little paint or new fabric. You’d be surprised at the gems you can find for a fraction of their original price.
3. Paint a Focal Wall
Paint is an affordable way to make a big impact. Choose one wall to become your focal point and paint it with a vibrant color or a soothing shade, depending on your taste. This project can usually be done for under $30 and it completely changes the atmosphere of the room.
4. Use Multipurpose Furniture
In a small living room, space is at a premium. Look for furniture that can serve multiple purposes. A storage ottoman, for instance, can be used as a coffee table, extra seating, and a place to store blankets or books. Furniture that can be folded or expanded is also a great choice to make the most of your space.
5. Add Wall Art
Wall art, 100%! Wall art makes a huge difference. I didn’t realize its impact until I added some to my own space. Even though our living area is small, it transformed from feeling nearly okay to almost perfect. Try brightening up your walls with some pictures and colors—you’re going to love the change.
6. Add Mirrors
Mirrors can make your small living room appear larger. They reflect light and views, increasing the visual space of the room. You don’t need a big, expensive mirror; several small ones arranged artistically can be just as effective.
Put decorative mirrors or a group of smaller matching ones on your walls. They make small or dark rooms look brighter and more spacious. Mirrors also add some variety to your walls, which might otherwise only have framed prints or posters. Try hanging a mirror above your sofa or your bed instead of a large painting. Often, a big mirror can be cheaper than a similarly sized piece of art.
Look for mirrors at flea markets, thrift stores, IKEA, and Etsy.
Fun hack: Place a full-length mirror near your front door for a convenient spot to check your outfit before leaving. It’s a nice little touch that women visiting your home will appreciate too.
7. Choose the Correct Lighting
Good lighting can make a room feel bigger and more welcoming. Use a mix of light sources like floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces to create a warm ambiance. You can often find great deals on lamps at secondhand stores, or consider updating old lampshades with fabric or paint for a fresh look.
8. Use Rugs to Define Spaces
Rugs can help define different areas within your small living room, like a sitting area or a reading nook. They also add color and texture to the floor. Look for affordable options at discount stores or buy secondhand. Even a small rug can add a touch of comfort and style to your space.
9. Hang Curtains High
To make your ceilings appear higher and your windows larger, hang your curtains from near the ceiling and let them fall to the floor. This draws the eye upward. Lightweight curtains that allow light to filter through can make the room feel airier and more open.
10. Use Accessories Sparingly
Choose a few key accessories to add personality without clutter. A couple of cushions, a throw blanket, and some green plants can make the room feel lived-in without overcrowding it. Plants are especially good in small spaces because they add color and life to the room. You can get inexpensive plants like succulents and Monstera that are easy to care for.
Take Your Time With Decorating Your Living Space
If you’ve just moved in, you don’t need to fill your house with lots of things right away. Remember, a house becomes a home gradually, with meaningful items. Some people rush to buy everything at once. But take a breath. Buying a house is already a big achievement! Give yourself time to settle in, and only buy things when you really need them.
When me and my husband moved into our small apartment, it was pretty empty for the first two years, but soon enough, we had everything we needed. A good money-saving tip is to plan slowly. For example, if you think you want a book stand, don’t rush.
Keep an eye out for one at a flea market when you’re ready. Take your time to choose things you really like. Think about how you want your space to feel, live in it for a bit, and make a list of priorities and things to look out for.
Decorating your small living room on a budget is all about making smart choices and being creative with your resources. By focusing on simplicity and functionality, you can create a space that feels both stylish and welcoming without breaking the bank.
