If you’re looking to spruce up your space, but aren’t much of a DIYer in the traditional sense, then this is for you. I caught up with a few designers to get their creative ideas for transforming some of the home’s existing furniture and decorative pieces—all without picking up a can of paint or renting power tools from Home Depot (though you might need an Allen key if you’re going to try one of these of tricks involving a product from IKEA). These pros have pulled off these styling tricks in their client projects (and in their own homes, in some cases). So I’d say that’s a pretty good proof of concept. The best part? None of these ideas are ridiculously expensive, but they can make your home look more luxurious. That’s a win in my book.
“Reclaim” your sofa at a good price
There’s no need to spend big bucks reupholstering your couch or investing in fancy upholstery when you get tired of its fabric. Instead, try this affordable hack from designer Jessica Davis, founder of Atelier Davis. Simply place the throw over the back of the sofa and tuck it into the back of the seat to create a two-tone look. This can be a great way to hide stains or discoloration that may have occurred over time as well.
Incorporate textiles throughout your home
From faux sheepskins to inexpensive fabric scraps, you can use textiles to update your space in many more ways than the above. “Throwing a soft sheepskin over the back of a sofa or rocking chair can add plush softness to any space,” says designer Kara Piepmeyer, founder of Studio Kosma. “It instantly elevates an everyday chair into something chic and comfortable.” The designer also notes that scrap materials or inexpensive tapestries can also make excellent pieces of wall art. “Putting a beautiful woven textile on a wall makes a huge statement and adds softness at minimal cost,” she says.
Double up for a luxurious sofa look.
If you want a larger sofa and already have a chaise longue on hand, consider combining that piece with another chaise longue to create a signature mega-sofa for potentially less than $500. Designer Jackie Terrell combined two IKEA SÖDERHAMN chaise lounges to create one large, 10-foot-long sofa, which perfectly fills the living room wall shown here. Adding a row of the same pillows along the wall provides back support for anyone who isn’t sitting on the ends.
Credits: Photo: Alex Lepe; Prop Stylist: Sophie Strangio
Make your books work harder for you
Side tables don’t have to be made of wood or metal – think about how you can “build” your own from everyday items from home. “All books are a great idea to use instead of a piece of furniture next to a sofa or chair,” says designer Andi Morse, founder of Morse Design. Piepmeyer agrees and says that “a big pile of big coffee table books is the most versatile hack of all.” Don’t be afraid to experiment with your placement over time. As Piepmeyer says, “Add or remove books to adjust the height and move them around the space as needed!”