I’m an interior designer and have lived in studios – my non-negotiables for decorating small spaces on a budget

ONE, an interiors professional and former tiny home resident, specializes in transforming small spaces on a tight budget.

She shared her tips for cutting costs without sacrificing style.

Samantha Potter, interior designer and founder of Samantha Potter’s houseexplained how she knows a thing or two about “decorating for small spaces on even smaller budgets.”

Having previously lived in tiny spaces, she is aware of the value of saving a few pennies when decorating.

“I’ve lived in studios, one-bedrooms and laneway houses,” she said.

To achieve the lofty home of your dreams, she recommends thinking “outside the box.”

“Whether you’re living in a cozy apartment or just trying to make the most of a compact room, there are two tips that I consider non-negotiable when decorating your spaces,” she said.

No matter the size of your space, one tip remains the same: plan ahead.

She explained how this will make a “huge difference” in how you allocate your decorating funds.

It’s possible to stay frugal if you follow her tricks, including creating an inspiration board.

“This will help you learn what you need and what will work in your space. This way, you will be thoughtfully decorating your small spaces and saving money instead of making unnecessary purchases,” she said.

“The other non-negotiable is knowing how you use the space and trying to work within it,” he added.

DOUBLE DUTY

She also recommends “combining your needs.”

For example, Potter advises items that have multiple uses, like an ottoman-style coffee table.

By being able to open the table, you instantly save space and gain storage.

Also remember to think about the items you use regularly.

“See what you have, what you already use, and see how that can translate into decor,” she said.

BE FUNCTIONAL

She also advises people to incorporate items that serve a purpose while making the space feel larger.

These examples include a floor-length mirror as well as curtains that are wider than the window and then “install them close to the ceiling.”

According to Potter, this can transform the entire “vibe” of your home.

BUDGET PURCHASES

When it comes to decorating her space for less, she doesn’t shy away from DIY projects or exploring dollar stores, thrift stores, and Facebook Marketplace.

“There are so many fun and easy games you can tackle,” she said.

From paper mache bowls using egg cartons to her homemade pedestal planter, she knows it’s possible to save big.

If you can stretch your budget a bit, she also recommends checking out Target or trying to locate a sale somewhere.

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