Growing up, I spent many Saturdays helping my mom move furniture around our Arlington, TX ranch-style home. Although my dad never knew where he'd find his recliner after work, my decorator-on-a-budget mom could give any room a lift by simply rearranging couches, chairs and accessories.
I wish I had my mom's decorating vision but that talent went to my sister Pam. That's why I was excited to talk with MyKirklands.com designer Kim Neidel, who says anyone can spruce up their home like a pro without spending a lot of money.
Interior designer Kim Neidel
Most people think decorating is scary, or at least intimidating, but many stores have items that complement each other. That makes it easy to liven up your home like a designer, plus it can be done on a budget. Being a bargain shopper is the key!
Adding a couple of pillows, new lamp shades and a throw blanket can update a room and bring in pops of color that will transform your space. To give you an example, I did all of this for less than $60.
First, I picked up some picture frames at garage sales and a discount store. Then, I spray painted them all the same color. Painting picture frames in fun, bold colors and making a collage on a wall can make a designer statement that will set your room apart. I also bought a thrift store travel book for around $2. I cut out my favorite pictures and put them in the frames. ($8)
Consider painting the ceiling as an accent wall and using trendy colors like chocolate brown, turquoise or crimson to keep your room feeling fun and updated.
Then, I brought the room to life with plants. If you don't have a green thumb, faux plants make a terrific option. To freshen up the room, I added some new greenery and flowers to match my new color scheme. I got this Iris arrangement at Kirkland's for $29.99 and placed it on a side table. ($30)
To top off my "new" room's look, I painted an accent wall using a color that was already emphasized in the room. This is an easy way to add a splash of color and make a big statement. Consider painting the ceiling as an accent wall and using trendy colors like chocolate brown, turquoise or crimson to keep your room feeling fun and updated. I picked up the paint for $5 a gallon in the "mismatched" section at the hardware store. ($5)
Pillows are a nice way to introduce a new color to the room without overdoing it. New colors, textures and patterns on pillows like these square toss pillows can fre
shen up your furniture. I grabbed a pair at Kirkland's for $12.99 for the set. ($13)
To stretch your budget even further, use coupons and don't be afraid to check out estate sales.
Making over a room for less than $60 is clearly a challenge, but with a little creativity, it can definitely be done! What clever design tricks have you used?
Designer Kim Neidel has a bachelor's degree in Interior Design from Texas State University and owns Kim Neidel Design, an interior decorating business in San Angelo, TX. You can talk with Kim and four other professional designers one-on-one at MyKirklands.com.
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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