Save And Splurge To Mix Cheap With Chic

Learning when to save and when to splurge can be one of the most important tools a do-it-yourself decorator can develop. The ability to know when to spend for quality is a mark of smart home decorating.

Here are some ideas on how to combine cheap with chic in ways that won't break the family budget.

Decide what constitutes quality for your family. For example, a family that prefers to save money for ski trips probably would be willing to put up with having only one bathroom in their home. On the other hand, a family that treasures game night or movie night will want to invest in the best quality family room furniture it can afford.

Personal comfort and lifestyle also play major roles in home decorating. In general this means that anytime furnishings come in contact with human bodies, it's smart to buy the best quality one can afford. Investing in top-quality fabrics can update secondhand furniture, while buying bed linens with high thread counts improves sleep comfort.

Construction also plays a big role in choosing when to save and when to splurge. With so many people working from these days thanks to the Internet, more dwellings include home offices or at least an office space. Here a well-constructed ergonomic office chair with plenty of back support would be more valuable than a desk, which could be a thrift shop find. If the desk looks a little battered, clean it up with a fresh coat of paint or make it look "shabby chic" with a color wash.

Quality also works from the ground up. Consider installing resilient vinyl flooring over a cork under-floor to keep things comfortable underfoot. Then top the less expensive flooring with top-quality area rugs for color, warmth and style. Use durable, stain-resistant synthetic-fiber rugs in high-traffic areas and children's rooms and in kitchens and bathrooms where spills are likely. Save the natural-fiber coverings such as wool Flokati rugs for areas of less traffic not subject to moisture.

Spend money on window treatments. Cheaper window treatments are available, but a quality window setting that complements your beautiful area rugs will unify a room's decorating scheme.

Buy the best quality furniture you can afford, especially major pieces such as sofas and chairs. Then accessorize with inexpensive pillows. Likewise, top expensive tables with cheap lamps from secondhand stores or thrift shops. If the lamp looks a little shabby (and "shabby chic" isn't your decorating style), paint or gild it. Shape rather than appearance matters more.

The same technique is true of chandeliers in dining rooms, kitchens and other rooms. Chandeliers can be found quite cheaply at many home stores, and spruced up with new shades or other adornments.

In the bedroom, consider buying a quality dresser or wardrobe and changing out its hardware. This technique will provide worthwhile bedroom furniture while allowing you to create your personal style.

The most important thing to remember when combining cheap with chic is to use your imagination and personal taste. If something matters enough to you to invest money in it, then it's the quality you want and deserve.