Perhaps you have just graduated from college, just started your first job, or maybe you just rented your first apartment or purchased your first home, regardless it is an exciting rite of passage.
Part of the excitement relates to the opportunity to make a space your own, infusing your own taste and design sensibility. But good design doesn’t have to be expensive and there are a number of easy and affordable ways to make your pad feel fun, yet sophisticated.
High contrast. High contrast is a designer tip that anyone can use in their own space. Sometimes a single color palette can come across as unsophisticated, while using one that utilizes “high contrast” techniques such as black and white, light and dark, can come across as more luxurious.
Pastel colors. Pastel colors are back. They are both youthful and sophisticated; don’t be afraid to use colors such as soft blue, pastel pink or mint green.
High vs low. Designers do it on the runway, so why not do it in your home? Mixing more expensive pieces with flea market or thrift store finds can be a fabulous way to create an overall sophisticated look.
Decorate with books. Decorating with books is one of the most affordable ways to design, and a “go to” designer trick. One way to display books is to turn them “spline in” in order to create a consistent look.
No stuffed animals. Stuffed animals are a no-no if you want your space to feel grown up and sophisticated. If you can’t bear to part with them, consider placing them in a decorative bin.
Add greenery. Plants, succulents, florals and trees are both good for your environment as it relates to oxygen and health and are also a great way to infuse color and sophistication into your space at an affordable price.
