Canadians spent a lot to make their homes more comfortable early in the COVID-19 pandemic. Between March and September 2020, nearly 45% of Canadians bought furniture, electronics or appliances, and about 37% completed meaningful renovations, according to an Ipsos survey. For renters, however, decorating often comes with limits: you can’t always paint walls or make permanent changes without landlord approval. So how can renters refresh their space affordably and effectively?
Elias Blunden-Stone, who runs The Room Editor — a service that helps clients reuse what they already own to redesign rooms — advises starting with existing items before buying anything new. “Work with what you already have first,” he says. “Move pieces around so they work harder, smarter and more beautifully, then add affordable, high-impact finds only when necessary.” Blunden-Stone describes himself as a stylist, design journalist, collector, artist and maker who helps clients get the most out of their possessions while staying on budget.
MoneySense spoke with Blunden-Stone about practical, budget-friendly ways renters can redecorate without overspending or making permanent changes.
What financial pitfalls do people encounter when they decorate?
People often overspend on items they assume must be expensive. I use a simple, affordable approach to editing a space and many clients are surprised by how much they can change for less than they expected. The biggest pitfall is believing you need high-priced items to achieve a polished look; with strategy and resourcefulness, affordable options and small changes can deliver big impact.
Why do people feel they need to start from scratch when redecorating?
Starting over is sometimes necessary, but it’s overused. More often, fatigue with a room is mistaken for dislike of the items in it. Before deciding to replace everything, try small interventions: move furniture around, clean and polish pieces, or set items aside temporarily to see the space with fresh eyes. These low-cost steps can renew your appreciation for what you own and prevent unnecessary spending.
What are the benefits of using what you already own to redecorate?
Using existing items saves money and reduces waste. It also avoids the environmental impact of discarding usable pieces. Professional interior designers offer deep, specialized skills, but their services can be costly. My approach targets people who want attractive results without the financial burden of traditional full-scale design: I take on small projects like finding a lamp or rug, encourage DIY fixes, and suggest budget-friendly retailers for items that don’t need to be heirloom quality. Letting clients purchase at their own pace reduces pressure and helps them stick to a budget.
High-impact ways to change a space on a small budget
Here are five effective, low-cost strategies for renters and anyone decorating on a budget:
- Accessorize smartly — Use plants, books, affordable wall art and decorative textiles to transform a room quickly. Accessories change a room’s tone without permanent alterations. A simple trick for adding greenery: ask guests to bring houseplants to a dinner party instead of wine.
- Learn some DIY — Small fixes and cosmetic tweaks can turn a bargain piece into something you love. Painting, refinishing, reupholstering or rewiring a lamp are often easier than they seem and affordable online tutorials can guide you. Stretching a vibrant fabric over a canvas frame creates an impactful artwork or inexpensive headboard.
- Move things around — Repositioning furniture or accessories costs nothing but can dramatically improve flow and function.
- Embrace budget retail for low-contact items — Items like mirror frames or lampshades can be stylish and inexpensive because they aren’t handled frequently. Choose a budget option for items that mainly serve a visual purpose.
- Treat budget furniture like higher-end pieces — Respect and care extend the life of any item. Regular maintenance and mindful use keep furniture looking and performing well, whether it’s an IKEA piece or a vintage find.
How to redecorate at home with zero budget
If your budget is zero, a fresh editing process can still yield great results. Try these steps:
- Invite an opinionated friend for a fresh perspective.
- Be ready to explain why you keep certain items and how you use them — questioning habits can reveal new options.
- Gather everything you want to keep in an open area and lay it out so you can reassess each piece.
- Highlight one or two items you truly love by placing them in a prime spot; repeat this room by room.
- Use the items you’ve set aside to fill gaps and balance the composition.
Any last advice?
Most objects in your home reflect choices you made for a reason. You may not love how they’re currently used, but they likely hold potential. Remember why you chose them and find ways to make them work for you — with creativity, care and a little persistence, your space can look refreshed without breaking the bank.
Related topics on renting and decorating
- Want to save money as a renter? Five things it’s worth investing in.
- Rethinking rentership: Strategies to improve your financial situation while renting.
- Renting vs. home ownership: Can you be financially secure without buying?
- Renters and moving during the pandemic: costs and considerations.