Some women are addicted to adding new shoes to their collection; others are obsessed with having designer clothes in their wardrobe. I; however, am the self-proclaimed home decor addict. One of my favorite hobbies is heading to my local Homegoods and picking out new pieces to add to my apartment. I have even been known to bring little Theodore (my puppy) along with me to help me choose some new items. I am constantly thinking about trinkets or furniture our apartment might be missing or trying to find new ways to freshen up certain rooms in the place.
Because I have had to move three times in less than two years [now looking like it might be four!] I feel like I have constantly been getting ride of old poessions and having to replace things because it either broke in the move (so sad when this happens!) or because they just didn’t make the cut to move across the country. Because of all the moving, I really feel like I have gained a few trips and tricks to purchasing home decor!
1. Don’t Shop Before You’ve Thought!
Having an image or an idea in your head of what you want the room or apartment to look like before hand is super important. If you jump the gun and begin to buy items that you think you will need, you may end up realizing you are headed to a color scheme or theme that you don’t really want to have in the long run. Gain inspiration and think about the overall image of the place before you start shopping.
2. Get Specific About Your Color Scheme
Will the whole place be white and airy? Will each room have its own color scheme? Are you going for a neutral look or bold and bright? These are all questions you need to start asking yourself. With our apartment, I knew I wanted a lot of grey and black with touches of silver. So as you start shopping, only look at items if they met the color requirements.
3. Buy Big Pieces First
Decorating can be expensive. And I know for me, I tend to focus more on what kind of throw pillows I want before I even choose the couch! Invest in your large furniture purchases before you start planning the details. If you buy the smaller items first, they might not go as well as you would like with the couch, or bed for example.
4. Be Patient
This is my biggest tip. If you haven’t found a headboard you are in love with or are still searching for that perfect coffee table, keep waiting! It is so much better to go without the piece for a while than to purchase something you are not that crazy about. And you will just waste money in the long run by purchasing a temporary piece. Every time I have waited to purchase a big piece, It was well worth the wait.
5. Don’t Forget the Details
Wonderfully decorated homes do not get that way on accident. They are thought out and planned very particularly. Small trinkets and little decor pieces can add so much character and personality to your space. Adding a unique piece of artwork, a beautiful display of fake flowers, or even a small statue can really make your space look well thought out. Make a list of little items that you want to add to your space and as you come across them in different stores you can pick them up!
When you take the time to plan your space, it can really make a big difference in the whole atmosphere and experience in the home.
Where are your favorite places to shop for home decor?
I’m looking for things to decorate my apt with. Thanks for the advice about buying items specific to your color scheme. It’s also a good idea to set a budget, so you don’t overspend.