Imagine the elegance of a high-end home design magazine spread brought to life in your living space without burning a hole in your pocket. Sounds too good to be true, right?
Well, top Australian interior designer Kellie Richardson begs to differ.
The brilliant mind behind Kurved by Design who coined term 'Botox for your home', she believes in sprucing up homes to look like a million bucks without the hefty price tag. The 2020 recipient of the global CEO Excellence award spills the beans on achieving a luxe look on a budget.
Step one is to pinpoint your style. Ms Richardson stresses the importance of having a cohesive theme. "A unified style across your home prevents it from looking confused and haphazard," she suggests. She encourages people to delve deep to define their style, drawing inspiration from various sources and even seeking consultation from interior designers to refine their vision.
Next, she advocates for savvy shopping. From scoring unique pieces on Facebook and Gumtree to picking trendy furnishings from Kmart and Big W, there's a world of affordable options awaiting the eager homeowner. These platforms often offer designer replicas at a fraction of the cost, adding a chic touch to any home.
A proponent of upcycling, Ms Richardson encourages DIY enthusiasts to transform old pieces into bespoke items. "A bit of creativity can change something from drab to fab," she insists. Whether it's through Pinterest inspirations or tips from TikTok, upcycling can be a rewarding venture.
Budget-conscious homeowners should focus on investing in key pieces and then accessorising smartly. "Quality shouldn't be compromised when it comes to main pieces like beds or sofas. Accessorise them with affordable yet trendy items for a stylish outlook," Ms Richardson says. Additionally, sticking to neutrals while playing with seasonal colours for accents allows for regular, cost-effective refreshes.
She concludes with a golden rule: stick to your budget. Through smart shopping and DIY initiatives, transforming a home can be both affordable and fun. "Accessorise smartly with vases, pillows, and throws to keep up with the latest trends without breaking the bank," Ms Richardson advises.
