Recession Decorating 101: Pinecone Lamps, Painted Furniture

Published July 19, 2012

This may not be the time to do a complete overhaul to your home but don’t let these economic times squash your creativity. Sometimes the smallest decorating details make the largest impact. You can still use your creative juices to add new life to mundane rooms in your home and not break the bank in the process.

Pinecone Lamps

I love this idea for its simplicity. Miniature pinecones may be found everywhere outside and just require a little drying out in order to be used for decorating projects. Remove the decorative finial that attaches the lampshade to the lamp. Sand the bottom of the pinecone so that the surface is smooth. Using your glue gun attach the pinecone to the top of the finial.  This is a great idea for bedside tables in guest rooms.

Painted Furniture

You would be surprised how an old chair can be given new life with a simple coat of paint. Revitalize old kitchen chairs with new and bright colours for Spring. Or visit a flea market and purchase a few mismatched chairs to rejuvenate with a glossy colourful paint. Another option is to re-upholster an existing chair. Seat cushions may be added to kitchen stools to give the room a bright, new look.

Picture Frames

Do you have  photo frames with old photographs lying in a drawer somewhere? If so, now is the time to pull them out and clean them up. Paint a wire frame a new colour and arrange an assortment of family photos in a new area that requires new life.

Drawer Pulls

Yes, even the smallest details such as a drawer pull can completely change the look of a dressing armoire or chest of drawers. To modernize a room choose smooth finished, contemporary drawer pulls that contrast the shade of the drawers.

Pillows

These are probably the easiest and most cost effective way to add new life to couches, chairs and beds. A simple throw pillow can be completely transformed with new and bright fabric. All you need to do is make a visit to your favorite fabric supplier and purchase a meter or two of some new and contemporary patterned fabric. If you’re not a sewer…find someone who is and treat them to a dinner at your place as a thank you.