Spending a little time and energy to plan out your layout and find some inspiring décor hacks can help you elevate the entire look and vibe of your apartment. The best part is you can create a cozy, inviting and impressive interior without breaking the bank. To help you get started, here are some essential tips on how to decorate your apartment on a budget.

Add Some Art Pieces

Whether it’s paintings or prints, art can instantly transform any dull-looking space into a vibrant, chic and artful display. Even if you’re going towards the minimalistic décor theme, a few large pieces of art placed on the wall are often all you need to add some warmth and colour to your space. There is a wide range of styles and price points, so you can easily find something that suits your taste and budget. Just be sure to stick with one major theme so they don’t clash.

Create a Statement Wall

Alternatively, you could take one wall in your living room and transform it into a statement wall. Paint it in a bold colour, add patterned wallpaper, or create a collage of smaller photos, prints or paintings. Make it reflect splashes of your personality. This will also create a focal point in the room and help tie everything together. 

Add Some Character with Mirrors

Using mirrors is a simple and affordable way to enhance and brighten the entire layout of your apartment. You can also find a wide range of different styles to suit your particular theme, whether it’s vintage, rustic, modern or industrial. Hang them on any bare wall or corner that could use a touch of character and light. 

Decorate with Plants Instead of Things

Plants add so much vibrancy and life to any space, and they will help to purify your indoor air, too. Instead of buying more things to add to your apartment, choose plants instead. A strategically placed houseplant can bring a cheery pop of colour to your window sills, coffee table, or bedroom. Some hard-to-kill varieties that do well indoors include snake plant, aloe, rubber plant, pothos, and spider plant.

Use Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are inexpensive, easy to use and convenient. Plus, they can provide you with all the space you need to display a few of your favourite décor pieces without taking up any floor space. 

Focus on Pillows and Throws

It’s the small details that really breathe life into any home, and pillows and throws are great examples of this. You can use them to pump up your neutral palette with some accent colours or change up the style and vibe of a room as the seasons transition. Use throws on your couch, chairs or bed to make them cozy and comfortable while adding a touch of colour at the same time.

Find a Flashy Rug

If your apartment feels a bit too neutral and stale for your liking, add a flashy, colourful rug. Sometimes, all you need is one new eye-catching statement piece beneath your toes to make your place feel more like your home.

Add DIY Touches

There’s something to be said about making a one-of-a-kind item to show off in your apartment. Plenty of crafting materials are relatively cheap and can easily be turned into something beautiful and functional. For example, using air-dry clay, you can make candle holders, book ends, trinket dishes, and more! Consider online knitting or crocheting tutorials to learn how to make blankets and stuffed animals. Plus, DIYA can also be a great way to get friends to help with decorating if you want to host a craft night!

Use Colour

The colours you choose for your furniture, decor, and accents are more than just finishing touches—they set the tone for your entire space. Rich jewel tones, like a bold emerald green, can wrap a room in warmth and sophistication, perfect for creating a cozy retreat. On the other hand, soft pastels or light neutrals can open up your space, giving it an airy, expansive feel. If you're upgrading your furniture, think beyond functionality—explore colours and textures that spark curiosity and draw the eye.

If you’re on the hunt for a new apartment in Ottawa, check out our current listings at CLV Group.