New Home? How To Decorate on a Budget

Buying property in Malta is one of the biggest investments you’re likely to make in your life, but it is no less challenging turning that house into a home.

Decorating is a massive undertaking; it is time consuming and involves serious commitment to get it done, and get it done well. But the good news is that is that it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Whether it’s a new home you’ve moved into or you are simply looking to revamp your current property in Malta, a lick of paint is always a great way to give your house a lift. Walls, in fact, can add a lot of character. So you could experiment with a feature wall, or make a dramatic change to a room by painting all the walls in a dark and intense colour.

Once you’re done with the base, it’s time to start building on your foundations. In today’s economic scenario, why not rehash an item you already own, or one that you can buy cheaply second-hand? Restoring old furniture can save a lot of money, and a little artistic flair can go a long way (while adding a sense of personality and fun to your project).

It is also important to keep in mind that decorating isn’t just about making things look beautiful, but also about making them practical. Always take into consideration how your changes will affect the natural light you get in a space – whether you want to maximise or minimise it. Don’t paint a room in a dark colour if it’s not naturally well-lit. Meanwhile, use mirrors to reflect and generate light, particularly in small rooms, like guest bathrooms.

Meanwhile, sofas and other expensive pieces of furniture can easily be spruced up by disguising them in fabrics of your choice. Buying new covers, throw-overs or cushions can instantly revive your couch, and your old dining table can be hidden away under a bright tablecloth, or revived with a runner.

Finally, windows can easily be given a fresh lease of life by draping them in new curtains. Use patterns and colours to add character to your room, both when it comes to curtains and wallpaper. Artwork, whether an original painting or a framed print, will also give your walls and rooms life, and little accessories (perhaps items collected on your travels) will add that final touch.