How to refurnish a living room for under $2,000
How to redecorate a living room for under $2,000
Start with the obvious
Whoever says that a slim budget cramps your style has not done their research. With an increasing emergence of tasteful Canadian home stores, there are tons of fabulous (full price!) finds that won’t wear out your wallet. Give your living room a traditional-meets-contemporary makeover with mid-century modern design in mind.
It goes without saying; you can’t miss a trip to Ikea if you’re on a budget. Begin with a statement by opting for a navy loveseat, and your remaining decorative details will adapt effortlessly. Rich, deep hues will keep your living room classy, and no one will ever guess the cost.
Kivik Loveseat in Orrsta dark blue, $480, Ikea.
Pair solids with patterns
We love the combination of a black and white textured pillow up against navy upholstery. To see the complete look, check out Urban Outfitters couch pairing for this exact throw.
Textured Diamond-Stripe Pillow, $69, Urban Outfitters.
Experiment with compound pieces
Look for versatile furniture sets to save a bit of cash. This adaptable Zara Home table invites you to place all three sections together, or to break them up about the room. Try arranging the smaller two as side tables, visually elongating the love seat; use the third square table as a bar table.
Mirrored Little Tables (set of 3), $269, Zara Home.
Save up for statement pieces
Urban Outfitters may just become your favourite store. Their mid-century inspired Modern Chair is a statement piece that will add both class and comfort to your living room, at a palatable price. Create a charming reading nook by placing a lamp and an ottoman adjacent. The tapered wooden legs also match the neighbouring teak coffee table.
Modern Chair, $299, Urban Outfitters.
Dress your furnishings with faux fabrics
Who needs real fur when you can go faux and fabulous? Nothing makes a couch or chair cozier than the addition of a plushy blanket. This oh-so-soft item has an elegant sheen that will convince your eyes and skin that it’s a genuinely perfect pelt.
Faux Fur Throw in Winter White, $100, Indigo.
Invest in flexible fixtures
Instead of investing in two table lamps, give your living room a modern spin by featuring one notable floor lamp next to a couch or chair. This piece is a flexible spotlight for wherever you need it, and its sleek bronze beauty will steal the show.
Laboratory Lamp, $98, Urban Outfitters.
Cleverly include bonus items
Bring extra balance, beauty and comfort into your living room with an ottoman. Serving up another level of sophistication, this lovely tufted furnishing can be used as additional seating, a footrest, or even as a spot for a tea tray.
Lilliput Ottoman in Linen, $99, Urban Barn.
Decorate with thoughtful details
Zara Home’s brass magnifying glass is the perfect décor accent. Place it on top of a stack of books on your coffee table as a wonderfully distinguished element.
Decorative Metal Magnifying Glass, $40, Zara Home.
Browse discount designer outlets
Structube is a brilliant home enhancement resource for budget hunters. Offering the top designs for the best prices, the retailer has a wide selection of furniture that’s offered at 43 stores across Canada. Their mid-century Osaka coffee table is a versatile find, designed with a teak veneer top and solid ash legs.
Osaka Coffee Table, $179, Structube.
Tie everything together with a simple rug
Working with hardwood? One of the best ways to bring balance and warmth to a living room is by placing a patterned floor covering underfoot. While West Elm offers many expensive options, this 3-foot by 5-foot area rug is sufficient for rolling out style beneath your coffee table.
Kite Wool Kilim Rug in Flax, $152, westelm.com.
Style smart with inexpensive accessories
This curvaceous stem holder adds flair for less than $5! Arrange some colourful garden flowers inside of it, and keep your eyes open for more affordable and homespun ornaments.
Black Ceramic Vase, $4, Walmart.
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