Get the Look for Less

I love the look of this Pottery Barn media center, but I’m a girl on a budget so I’m not a big fan of its price. That’s why I created my own version of the media center, above. It’s not exact, but it’s not a bad replica of the original. And the best part is that it only cost me about $300 (not counting the price of the TV, DVD player, and books, of course). Not bad considering the original would’ve set me back about $2,000.

Creating the expensive decorating schemes you see in magazines and catalogs doesn’t require spending every last penny you own—it just takes a bit of creativity. Tear out pictures of your dream furnishings, rooms, or what-have-you and take them to your favorite discount stores. You may not find exact replicas, but you’ll be surprised how close you can get. I frequent Target, Pier One, TJ Maxx, Michaels, and the like for everything from furnishings to funky artwork. Try it yourself and you’ll be well on your way to high-end style for bargain-basement prices.

Learn more about getting the Pottery Barn look for less in Kimberly Danger’s article of that very name. The article has some great pointers for how you can emulate the looks you love, and it also gives you shopping ideas (including filling you in on when you can score the best deals at other budget-friendly stores—for instance, Target markdowns usually happen on Thursdays).

Want more inspiration?

Check out Mabel’s House. This blogger breaks down how she created her super-cute bedroom without breaking the bank. (She lives in a ’50s ranch house like I do, so I love seeing what she’s done.)

On HGTV’s “Decorating Cents,” you can learn to re-create high-price-tag rooms for $3,700 or less. Get some budget-friendly inspiration from the show here.

And in this episode of DIY Decorating & Design, check out the side-by-side home décor comparison to learn how you can duplicate expensive wall coverings, furniture, artwork, and accessories for up to a third less.

Or how about some budget decorating tips from celebrity designers?

Now I have the urge to do some more budget decorating. So share with me! What have you done to get the look for less in your own home? And what other blogs do you go to for inspiration? Share share share!

Until tomorrow,
The Home Know-It-All