10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime!

While I’m a design freak, I’m a frugal sort of design freak. Which is why these 10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime were relatively easy to articulate. The no-cost decor ideas are common sense reminders that we can make fresh changes around the house without getting ourselves in a tizzy. And I’m all for preventing the tizzy and welcoming peaceful living! You’ll also see peeks around our house, where I try to keep the mood natural, serene, uncomplicated, and minimal yet warm. 

My serene white bedroom with Stikwood (Hamptons) statement wall, cottage style furniture, knotty alder door with oiled bronze hardware, and white oak wide plank hardwood flooring. #hellolovelystudio #bedroom #serene #whitebedroom #frenchcountry #rusticdecor #modernfarmhouse #stikwood #hamptons
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime!

Wondering about the paint color we used throughout our home? It’s the color shown on the bottom left of the infographic below:

BENJAMIN MOORE “WHITE”

Ultimate Guide to Best White Paint Colors! #bestwhite #whitepaint #choosingwhite #paintcolors #benjaminmoorewhite #benjaminmoorewhitedove #benjaminmooreclassicgray #benjaminmoorecollingwood #benjaminmooreacadiawhite #benjaminmoorefrenchcanvas #benaminmoorehalo
See this story for choosing the best white paint colors.
My serene whit ekitchen with modern farmhouse, classic, and French country style. Vintage Flower Market sign from Urban Farmgirl. Viatera quartz (Minuet) countertops and Louis linen upholstered bar stools. Round breakfast table and two linen slipcovered arm chairs. #hellolovelystudio #kitchendecor #serene #timeless #tranquildecor #frenchcountry #modernfarmhouse #whitekitchen
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

In case you are considering white quartz for your kitchen…see this.

Tip #1

Get Pumped.
Shopping your house and using what you already
have is not an earth-shattering new concept;
yet we sometimes feel paralyzed
and clueless as to where to begin.
We may feel overwhelmed about confronting
all the “stuff” stored in a basement, garage, or closets.

10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime! My living room and dining room with Belgian style, and timeless tranquil decor. #hellolovelystudio #belgianstyle #belgianlinen #europeancountry
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It’s okay if you feel less than confident about beginning the process.
As you move through the discomfort, your confidence will grow. If it helps, think:
MICHELE SAYS I CAN TOTALLY DO THIS,
AND IT WILL MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE.

A 3-legged stool in my bathroom near the clawfoot tub has a Diptyque candle and a book of poetry. White roses in the background. #bathroomdecor #hellolovelystudio #rusticstool #diptyque
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

Because it will.

Oyedo Candle by Diptyque
Oyedo Candle by Diptyque (Not cheap, but cheaper than going to Paris, and you WILL be transported by these complex Diptyque scents!)
My living room with Benjamin Moore "White" walls, catwalk, and Belgian linen furnishings in the great room. #hellolovelystudio #catwalk #greatroom #Belgianstyle #belgianlinen
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Tod Leather Swivel Lounge Chair
Arne Jacobsen style Egg Chair…certainly lovely indeed.

Tip #2

Pick One Room.
You’re going to begin with just one room,
so maybe pick the one you have dreaded addressing.
Why that one?
Because it can only get better, and that added confidence
just may carry you into the next project.

European country neutral decor in the dining room with round table, lantern, Belgian linen slipcovered arm chairs, and Louis wood oval back dining chairs. Etagere is from RH and has vintage treasures and books. Original art flanking etagere is by me. #hellolovelystudio #europeancountry #diningroom #etagere #belgianlinen #lantern #rustic #neutral
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

Tip #3

Identify Your Style and Color Scheme.
I know this may sound oversimplified, but it’s a way to get started.

Okay, first begin by sitting down with post-it notes, and a pen.
On a post-it, note the decor style you’re after for the room, and on another, the color scheme.
Going neutral? Tone on tone? All-white? Colorful and bold?
Don’t worry about the colors of your existing furniture at this point.
If you want to use pastels yet have a huge brown sofa
in the space, don’t freak out.
You can work with it!

10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime! A Belgian linen slipcovered arm chair in my bedroom from RH. Cottage style nightstand with Paris gate lamp (RH) and Stikwood (Hamptons) reclaimed wood planks on wall for a rustic chic look. #bedroomdecor #neutral #stikwood #hamptons #belgianlinen #hellolovelystudio
10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime! Hello Lovely Studio.
Propeller Arm Maritime Table Clock
In case you need a pop of metallic on your bedside table…Howard Miller Table Clock

Unsure about what interior design style you desire? Take time to peruse inspiration from the archives of Hello Lovely or Pinterest to identify the best fit.

My bedroom with white oak wood floor, French country furniture, bronze overscaled lamp, and Stikwood (Hamptons) reclaimed wood plank statement wall behind bed. #hellolovelystudio #bedroomdecor #frenchcountry #rusticdecor #whiteoak #stikwood #hamptons #cottagestyle #shiplap
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

Identifying the design style you’re shooting for makes it possible to execute the next steps.

Serene breakfast room with window seat, round dining table, Belgian linen slipcovered arm chairs, and vintage Flower Market sign. #hellolovelystudio #kitchendecor #breakfastroom #windowseat #belgianlinen #vintagestyle #modernfarmhouse #serene #neutraldecor
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Tip #4

Prep the Room.
1.
Step One: Clear as much as you can from the space.
Clear out small furniture, accessories, art, lamps, etc.
to be able to see the space in its barest state.
If you plan to paint, this is the time to do it.

Classic bathroom with modern farmhouse fireclay console sink by DXV. Wallpaper is Thibaut. Venetian mirror. #hellolovelystudio #bathroomdecor #thibaut #dxv #consolesink #venetianmirror
Hello Lovely Studio. See the resource guide for this bathroom we created from scratch here.

Shop my home

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
Antique Brass Floor Lamp
Helmsley Bronze Door Hardware
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Laurel Wreath Mirror
San Jose Handleset for Front Door
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Silver End Table
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Knotty Alder Interior Door
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Alabaster 30″ Lamp
Louis Ghost Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Linen Dining Chair
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
PARIS Framed Print
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
Tulip Style Modern Round Dining Table
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Holborn Lantern Pendant
Tray Side Table
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Bridge Kitchen Faucet (Stainless)
Jute Area Rug
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
Venetian Etched Mirror (24″ x 36″)
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Polished Carrara Subway Tile
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Antiqued Sunburst Mirror
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Round Marble Side Table
Linen Slipcover Dining Chair
Wicker Patio Chair
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing

2.
Step Two: CLEAN that room

Clean that room as if George Clooney, Princess Kate, and
the Dalai Lama are coming for dinner.
Make it sparkle!

Belgian linen slipcovered arm chair (RH) with animal print faux throw, antiqued silver campaign table, and knotty alder interior door. #hellolovelystudio #bedroomdecor #belgianlinen #alderdoor
Hello Lovely Studio. Knotty Alder Doors: HERE. 10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.
Aveda Shampure Soy Wax Candle 275G/9.7Oz
This is the candle in the photo I love: Aveda Shampure Candle…the scent? Complex and irresistibly reminiscent of Paris.

3.
Step Three: Snap a photo.
Take a photo of your clean room.

10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime! Weathered white farm table with cheeseboard, red wine, rustic branch in blue bottle, and peely shabby chic door in background. #hellolovelystudio #shabbychic #tablescape #cheeseboard #vintagedoor
10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime! Hello Lovely Studio.

4.
Step Four: Study the photo,
and you may be surprised how it guides you.
For example, you may see from the photo that
the furniture arrangement lacks symmetry or balance.

Serene white kitchen with Shaker cabinets, fireclay apron front farm sink, bridge faucet, Viatera quartz countertop (Minuet), and marble subway tile backsplash. #hellolovelystudio #kitchen #whitekitchen #serene #classic #quartz #subwaytile #viateraquartz #minuet
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

You may decide your curtains aren’t hung at the right level or the wall color is wrong. (Changing the height of your window treatment takes a little effort but costs nothing and could make a significant impact!)

Hallway in our modern yet traditional European country inspired home. Paint color is Benjamin Moore WHITE. Great room with Belgian linen, white oak hardwood flooring, and gray accents. #hellolovelystudio #belgianstyle #europeancountry #belgianlinen #whiteoak #greatroom #benjaminmoorewhite
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

On a third post-it note, jot down specifics with
which you’re unhappy and that disturb your eye
(i.e. coffee table is out of scale).
Also, note whether you feel better or worse
about the room in its minimal state.
Your emotional response at this juncture will
help to guide you in the next phase.

Serene whit kitchen with windowseat. Countertop is Viatera quartz in Minuet. Paint color is Benjamin Moore WHITE. Belgian linen French bar stools and slipcovered arm chairs with round wood dining table. #hellolovelystudio #kitchendecor #frenchcountry #serene #belgianlinen #europeancountry #neutral #windowseat #breakfastroom
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

If you suddenly feel much better at the
minimal décor stage , this is important information.
i.e. You can still create an English cottage style
look for the room with florals, vintage, and country
accessories, but maybe it will be
“modern cottage style” with less clutter.
If you feel uncomfortable and as if you can’t wait to
layer on the art, books, and objects in the room,
this reaction too informs your next moves.

Tencel Quilted Silken Coverlet
White Quilted Coverlet…certainly lovely indeed.
Romantic and white French country bed reflected in a leaner mirror in the bedroom. Foors are white oak hardwoods. White crochet lace bed skirt, Rustic three legged teak stool holds pink roses. Knotty alder closet door is full of character and oil rubbed bronze egg knob. Stikwood (Hamptons) reclaimed wood statement wall. #hellolovelystudio #bedroomdecor #stikwood #hamptons #knottyalder #alderdoor #whiteoakflooring
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

5.
Step Five: Decide on furniture placement.
Do you have a friend who has a knack for this?
Are you tired of its current placement and
anxious to try a new arrangement?
Go for it!

White serene kitchen with Minuet quartz countertop from Viatera. Marble subway tiles were taken to the ceiling. Louis French linen bar stools and window seat. #hellolovelystudio #kitchendecor #frenchcountry #viateraquartz #minuet #carrarasubwaytile #windowseat #belgianlinen
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

Tip #5

Shop Your Home.
As you shop your house for décor items,
decide whether the object/accessory/art is one
you want to see everyday…if it is, it will probably
work regardless of style since the last thing you want
is for every piece to say “I’m country,” “I’m modern,”
or “I’m rustic.”

Serene vignette in my studio with white reclaimed barnwood farm table, old mason jar as vase, colorful fruit, rustic cutting board, and peely weathered vintage door in background. #hellolovelystudio #shabbychic #vintagedoor #masonjar #cheeseboard #rusticdecor
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

An interesting mix is always going to be preferable.

Entry to our European country inspired home. Rustic alder front door with speakeasy from Pacific Entries. Oil rubbed bronze handleset. Vintage French prayer chair and dropleaf country table. Paint color on walls is Benjamin Moore WHITE. #benaminmoorewhite #hellolovelystudio #entry #rusticfrontdoor #prayerchair
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

Tip #6

Consider tweaking items that aren’t quite right.

An abstract seascape by me rests on a reclaimed barn wood bench. White flooring and white linen curtains (RH). #hellolovelystudio #whitedecor #whitepaintedfloor #farmbench #abstractpainting #seascape #whitelinencurtains
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

For example, an inexpensive painting you picked up
at a garage sale years ago may be the wrong color,
but if it’s the right size, maybe paint over it!

In a classic bathroom, fireclay modern farmhouse console sink. Venetian mirror over sink. Wallpaper is Thibaut. #hellolovelystudio #bathroomdecor #classicdecor #venetianmirror #consolesink #farmsink
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Tip #7

Get Creating.

Creating original art for the room is a great way to put your personal stamp on the room and add interest.

Serene white kitchen with white oak hardwood flooring. Shaker kitchen cabinets, Viatera quartz countertop (Minuet). Carrara subway tile taken to the ceiling. Modern range hood. Wall color is Benjamin Moore WHITE. #hellolovelystudio #whitekitchen #serene #whiteoak #benjaminmoorewhite #viateraquartz #minuet
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.
White oak laminate flooring
We just installed this wide plank, oak-look Montego Oak laminate flooring in my studio, and it is very similar to the white oak real hardwood flooring throughout the rest of our first floor…only the PRICE is insanely LOW at .99 per sq. foot!!!

Tip #8

Repurpose.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of furniture meant for other rooms…maybe that bedroom dresser can function as a
console table or bar and that stool can serve as a side table.

Window seat in breakfast room of kitchen. Belgian linen piillows and vintage galvanized pail holding dried hydrangea. Paint color is Bejamin Moore WHITE. #hellolovelystudio #benjaminmoorewhite #windowseat #breakfastroom #kitchen #belgianlinen #serenedecor
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Tip #9

Don’t Forget the Garage.

When shopping your house, don’t forget to check the garage.
You may find an industrial object, ladder, or something weathered and rustic to bring contrast into an otherwise pristine space.
Know what’s awesome about shopping your house?
When in doubt, simply try it out!
Plus it burns calories to shop, doncha know.

Rustic reclaimed wood shelves of etagere in our dining room. Vintage crucifixes from Europe on the shelf with other treasures. #hellolovelystudio #rusticdecor #reclaimedwood #shelves #vintagecrucifix
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

Tip #10

Consider These No Cost Decor Ideas.

Flowers and Branches From the Yard.

Rustic reclaimed wood coffee table in great room. Large glass vase with branch. #hellolovelystudio #coffeetable #rusticdecor #belgianstyle
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A stack of books can become a side table,

Belgian style living room with minimal yet coy charm. Belgian linen egg chair and club chair. French fireplace. Arch window and white oak flooring. Paint color is Benjamin Moore WHITE. #hellolovelystudio #benjaminmoorewhite #greatroom #belgianstyle #europeancountry #belgianlinen #eggchair #archwindow #rusticdecor #whiteoakfloor #frenchfireplace
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

Craigslist “Free” Section.

Rustic decor and vintage treasures on reclaimed wood shelves in dining room. #belgianstyle #etagere #diningroom #belgianlinen
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Castoffs from family/friends.

Serene white kitchen decor. Viatera quartz countertop (Minuet). Louis French linen bar stools. Carrara subway tile taken to ceiling. Fireclay farm sink. Modern Italian range hood. #hellolovelystudio #whitekitchen #classicdecor #serenedecor #frenchcountry #viateraquartz #Minuet
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

Original Art (or prints from magazines
or books for prints slipped into existing frames).

French doors from kitchen to dining room with Belgian style. Black round dining table with linen dining chairs and lantern. #diningroom #hellolovelystudio
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

Lazy No-Sew Slipcovers
(dropcloth, bedspread, quilt, coverlet, or fabric
as a casual, unfitted “slipcover” for a sofa or chair?)
With certain design styles, (cottage, shabby chic, boho, etc.)
this loose fit look may work.

10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime! Detail of Viatera quartz countertop (Minuet) with fireclay arm sink and bridge faucet (Kohler Parq). #hellolovelystudio #whitekitchen #farmsink #viateraquartz #minuet
10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime! Hello Lovely Studio.

Pile on the pillows (experiment with unexpected color combinations)

Serene breakfast dining area of kitchen with window seat. Belgian linen pillows and slipcovered arm chairs. #hellolovelystudio #kitchendecor #serenedecor #breakfastroom #windowseat #belgianlinen
Hello Lovely Studio.10 Tips to Decorate Without Spending a Dime…certainly lovely indeed! How to decorate without spending money with helpful decor help and design wisdom as well as realistic decorating advice to keep you sane.

BONUS no cost decor ADVICE FROM AN INTERIOR DESIGNER FRIEND of HELLO LOVELY:

“When I had my interior decorating business, it turned out most of my clients had rather small budgets which meant a “shop your home” approach. I actually loved doing that more than a ‘from scratch’ room because what the clients currently had gave me great insight into who they were.

My favorite times were when I’d say “May I have permission to shop your home?” and I’d find things they’d forgotten they had! I would often place accessories and furniture in rooms they’d never thought of using them or repurpose their use, making them look and feel new. Sometimes, with their permission, I’d paint all sorts of items.

One of my favorite stories: A new client said the only room in her home she truly liked was the bathroom. Immediately, when I saw it compared to her other rooms, I could see what she loved about it. A great starting point. The first big thing we did was to completely repurpose two of her rooms. We moved the too-big-for-the-space table and chairs into the adjoining room that had nothing but a small piano, a wicker chair and footstool in it. That room became the formal dining room, which was wonderful because it had a French door to the backyard. I purchased floor to ceiling soft, wispy semi-sheer curtains, a few new accessories, and the room was transformed! She was so excited because now she had a true dining area to entertain family and friends.

The small area that was previously unusable because the table was too large in the kitchen space, now held the wicker chair, footstool and a little side table I ‘confiscated’ from another room. For under the wicker furniture, I also borrowed a beautiful sisal rug from another room to define the morning coffee/quiet time area we’d created. She loved it all! And eventually I re-styled every room in her house. She worked in a very stressful occupation so it was imperative for her to come home to calm. (I must add that eventually I’d “shopped-out” her house and had to buy a couple things! Haha!)”

Thanks for touring our home and considering these decorating tips. Please share any tried and true no cost ideas in the comments!

I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.

Peace to you right where you are.

-michele

Shop for items you already intended to buy on Amazon RIGHT HERE, and also find home decor here to keep decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!

Hello Lovely is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing
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15 Comments

  1. Sugar R
    June 21, 2018 / 10:34 pm

    Wow, another great post Michele! I have always considered myself a “More-Is-More” person when it comes to decorating, but seeing your beautiful, serene home, inspires me to make some changes….I was also just reading the other day about getting rid of all your “fillers”….the stuff you don’t really love….Anyway, I think the universe is trying to tell me something! Also, this is such GREAT ADVICE for shopping your own home….The steps seem really doable…This is the first time in a while that I feel like I can actually tackle some of my spaces that need help. Thanks Again for the beautiful encouragement and inspiration!!

    • michele
      Author
      June 21, 2018 / 11:19 pm

      Thanks so much for the feedback!! I always find it helpful when someone demystifies the process a bit so I’ll try to do the same as a self-trained un-decor-ista as much as possible. I love so many ‘more is more’ rooms so I know the power they have when done right. Everyone responds differently, and that’s what makes thing interesting. Hope you can tackle a space and let me know!

  2. June 22, 2018 / 1:18 am

    This is excellent advice. Changing the furniture around can give you a completely different view of a room and make everything feel fresh. The same with taking away small items–it’s kind of like with Christmas, where having lots and lots of decorations feels special but it would be too much to live with all the time. When you put some things away and take them out again later, they feel new.

    • michele
      Author
      June 22, 2018 / 9:43 am

      I agree! The comparison to Christmas is spot on and especially hits home with me. I’m a personality who is very sensual and easily overwhelmed by Christmas decor even if it’s for a a few weeks. My parents will tell you I was mostly miserable as a child during the Christmas season and felt such shame about it. It’s interesting to consider what happens when a minimalist shacks up with a non-minimalist! In my case, my husband is as much a minimalist (if not more!) when it comes to interiors. You’ve inspired great thoughts here, friend. Thank you!

  3. Connie
    June 22, 2018 / 9:15 am

    When I had my interior decorating business, it turned out most of my clients had rather small budgets which meant a “shop your home” approach. I actually loved doing that more than a ‘from scratch’ room because what the clients currently had gave me great insight into who they were.

    My favorite times were when I’d say “May I have permission to shop your home?” and I’d find things they’d forgotten they had! 🙂 I would often place accessories and furniture in rooms they’d never thought of using them or repurpose their use, making them look and feel new. Sometimes, with their permission, I’d paint all sorts of items.

    One of my favorite stories: A new client said the only room in her home she truly liked was the bathroom. Immediately, when I saw it compared to her other rooms, I could see what she loved about it. A great starting point. 🙂 The first big thing we did was to completely repurpose two of her rooms. We moved the too-big-for-the-space table and chairs into the adjoining room that had nothing but a small piano, a wicker chair and footstool in it. That room became the formal dining room, which was wonderful because it had a French door to the backyard. I purchased floor to ceiling soft, wispy semi-sheer curtains, a few new accessories, and the room was transformed! She was so excited because now she had a true dining area to entertain family and friends.

    The small area that was previously unusable because the table was too large in the kitchen space, now held the wicker chair, footstool and a little side table I ‘confiscated’ from another room. 😉 For under the wicker furniture, I also borrowed a beautiful sisal rug from another room to define the morning coffee/quiet time area we’d created. She loved it all! And eventually I re-styled every room in her house. She worked in a very stressful occupation so it was imperative for her to come home to calm. (I must add that eventually I’d “shopped-out” her house and had to buy a couple things! Haha!)

    I’ve done all of these 10 fabulous tips you’ve listed and give a wholehearted thumbs up to your great post!

    • michele
      Author
      June 22, 2018 / 9:38 am

      You’re such a fabulous designer! What a gift to your clients when you re-introduce their treasures! Can I have permission to add some of your commentary here to the post? I think the professional experience and wisdom offered would be helpful to a lot of people! “Shopping your house” is a compelling topic for me with my background in psychology. Since objects have energy, I find it intriguing to consider what we store away behind closed doors, what we choose to see everyday, and how living with all these things affects us on subtle levels. Merci for adding all this beauty. xox

      • Connie
        June 22, 2018 / 10:33 am

        Of course, you may add any of my comments.

        I like that you mentioned “energy” of objects. There is energy all around us and I have a very direct connection to that because of my degree and continued work in music education coupled with my training in interior decorating. There are some things I’ve bought, thought I would love and/or use, stored them away after trying them out in a space, and ultimately donated to a thrift shop (most likely a different thrift shop than where I originally purchased them… 😉 )

        My business motto was “Love the Home You’re In….Again!” because we all hang onto things that make us not as happy as we’d like. Getting rid of those unloved items or changing things up, is often one of the best keys to loving your home…again. 🙂

        • michele
          Author
          June 22, 2018 / 12:24 pm

          Yay! Thanks so much. Keep bringing the seasoned experience and wisdom, please! I love your business philosophy and have much to learn from it. xox

  4. Connie
    June 22, 2018 / 10:37 am

    Oh…… I wanted to add that every time I see photos of your home, I feel very relaxed and refreshed. To me, light interiors are a healing space and your home is one I could easily spend a lovely time in. To paraphrase what one of my friends said when seeing our home “I feel I can breathe!”

    Every post you share is a much-welcomed start to my day. So very very happy I found your blog. 🙂

    • michele
      Author
      June 22, 2018 / 12:23 pm

      I’m so flattered and humbled. A healing space is what makes me come alive. xox

  5. Melaina
    June 22, 2018 / 12:47 pm

    Love the chandelier over the breakfast table (2 chairs). Do you have a source please?

    • michele
      Author
      June 22, 2018 / 12:53 pm

      I will see if I can find it – it’s an antiqued silver chandelier from 2006 so let me do some digging, and I’ll circle back here. Thanks for reading! 🙂

      • Melaina
        June 23, 2018 / 1:20 am

        Lovely, thank you. I am moving into a new a new home in downtown Charleston, SC and I think it will be perfect, somewhere. I am not sure exactly where at this point as the house is still empty and I have not really started the design process but, I will find a place for it … somehow it seems the chandelier needs to be (wants to be?) in the house, even before me!

        • michele
          Author
          June 23, 2018 / 7:53 am

          You’re so welcome. I am dying to visit Charleston – what a delightful place in store for you, friend. I love your intuition – you simply know this sparkly source of light is meant to be near you. Who can argue with the heart? xox

        • michele
          Author
          June 23, 2018 / 8:09 am

          Still haven’t found the exact chandelier and even checked eBay, but this is a similar silver leaf one: http://fxo.co/5k8k and I added it to the post. 🙂

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Let’s SHOP!

White Slipcovered Sofa
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29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
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Slipcovered Sofa
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White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
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Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
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French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
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Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
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White Charleston Sofa
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Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing