How to Decorate a Loft on a Budget

Use baskets for both decoration and storage.

The openness of a loft offers numerous possibilities for arranging a living space, interjecting your personality, but the challenge may be to do so on a budget. When done in stages and with a bit of resourcefulness, it is possible to create an authentic atmosphere, even on a shoestring budget.

Things You'll Need

• Paint
• Posters
• Framed fabric
• Shelves
• Hooks
• Baskets

Instructions

Adding Color

1. Add color, one of the most inexpensive decorating tools, in complementary hues to define different areas of the loft space.

2. Paint one portion of a wall with chalkboard or magnetic paint to create an instant communication center.

3. Repurpose posters from movie theatres for affordable artwork. Frame bold pieces of fabric for pieces of artwork that’s easy to update.

Choosing Furnishings

1. Stretch your decorating dollar further by select pieces that serve dual purposes, such as a loft-style bed that houses a bed up top and either seating or a desk below.

2. Save money on chairs by purchasing ottomans to serve as flexible seating.

3. Browse consignment shops and garage, moving and yard sales to find useable items on the cheap.

Building Storage

1. Install floating shelves to store books, decorative and other items rather than having pricey, built-in units installed, or align prefabricated bookcases along one wall and finish with decorative molding for a custom look.

2. Hang rows of simple hooks along a wall and outfit with assorted bags for inexpensive and portable storage.

3. Use small and medium-sized baskets on shelves and large baskets on the floor to store items and to add texture to the space.

References

• Moving Today: Decorating Your Loft Apartment
• Househunting.ca; Condo Couture on a Budget; June 2007
• Bob Vila: How to Decorate a Loft