Elegance on a budget

[GeraldThePufferSponge]

Hi all! I’m just starting out furnishing my first ever flat. Currently budget is very tight so I was hoping for some tips on how to make a place look elegant/put together when on a tight budget in a relatively small place.
Thank you! ☺️

Look at sites like Freecycle and Freegle.
You can get all sort of things.

You'll also get offered all sorts of things by friends and family. Use the freebies until you decide exactly what you need.

What sort of style are you looking for, OP? Do you like light/dark furniture, gold/silver, etc.?

When I moved out, I bought a bed and a sofa from Marketplace. I just had those for a while, then built up my furniture through Marketplace, Gumtree, eBay, second-hand furniture places and antique shops. Dark, classic-style furniture is generally quite cheap because it is currently unfashionable, so I make the most of it! Buy bits as you go along, and make the most of the sales. Just try to avoid getting in serious debt when doing your house up, as that will put a further limit on your budget!

Fresh paint in neutral/pastel shades look elegant, and long curtains and big mirrors always look nice. Have a look at Dunelm or any decorating shops, and find what looks elegant to you.

Personally I would look at high end places you like and determine the style you’re going for. For example I love Neptune, Pooky Lighting, OKA, Graham & Greene, but their stuff is pricey so I mix it with cheaper bits. Start following brands on Instagram, get a feel for their style and then buy cheaper items from places like Dunelm or Next who are really good at replicating those more expensive brands.

I would say a good place to start would be Instagram. Start following hashtags like #firsthome #victorianhousestyle or #newbuildinteriors or #scandistyle - whatever the look it is you’re going for.

I like to look at home interiors magazine's such as your home, style at home etc there will be more upmarket ones but those are the ones I like ( I look at them on readly you often get an offer for a month free sometimes 2 ) I then copy styles I like with things from charity shops/vinted/sales etc often upcycle things. As a pp said long drapey curtains and big mirrors always look lovely candles add a nice touch too. Enjoy creating you home!

Thank you all so much for your help! Notes taken and I will be hitting the shops 😁

Some top end names have one day sales where end of season or showroom stock is sold for a huge discount, sometimes to 70% so definitely worth having a look at those. Be prepared to buy something with a no refund policy unless the item is defective. I remember Graham and Green and Heals used to do them.

Is there an auction house nearby? They’re a great source of unusual bits and bobs, often for next to nothing. I’ve bought some lovely original artworks, ornaments and lamps from mine. Never mind the makes, just buy what you like. Have a good poke round on viewing day, mixed lots often have treasure in them….

I’ve recently been into charity shops for decor. Never been in a charity other than to donate in all my life, but the last 4 months I cannot get enough! Got some lovely pieces.

Look on Ebay and Etsy for things that add character. I was amazed how reasonable it is for small things like candlesticks and vases which are far nicer than the kind you pick up cheaply at Tyger or IKEA

. Once you know what you like from the more expensive companies, track down cheaper versions. I loved a £45 lampshade but found a similar one on Amazon for £12.

Car boot sales for bargains for every room. You never know what you're gonna find.