Design on a Dime

Craving a change of pace in your space, but don’t want to invest in a major remodel? Local pros from the American Society of Interior Designers Hawaii chapter say that all it takes for a fun room refresh is a few clever tricks. We asked ASID members and their friends to share simple, inexpensive design updates to make at home. Whether you’re a creative novice or DIY aficionado, these project ideas will help you discover that limited resources don’t have to cramp your style.

Photo: Courtesy of Sherwin-Williams

Bethany Zedalis, FAI Architects
“Color, texture and pattern can elevate any space,” says Zedalis, an interior designer. “Paint is by far the most versatile and affordable [option], which allows you to quickly transform walls and freshen up baseboards.”

Baseboards are an overlooked design element that “can contribute significantly to a room’s appearance,” she adds. “When updating your walls, consider replacing the traditional baseboard” with a minimalistic and modern style.

Zedalis also underscores the importance of lighting. “With so many options nowadays, a home’s aesthetic can be transformed in a day by replacing outdated fixtures,” she says. “This can be achieved even if you are renting, with many screw-in and nonpermanent options to add accent lighting throughout one’s space.”

Julia Sorensen Shaw, INspiration Interiors
Rearranging existing furniture and décor is the quickest way to update the look and functionality of a space, says Shaw, INspiration Interiors president. “Simply moving furniture around can open up a room, improve flow and highlight different focal points.”

Additional decluttering “can instantly make a room feel larger and more organized.” Shaw also recommends DIY projects such as repainting old furniture, creating your own artwork or sewing your own pillow covers.

“Repurposing items from different rooms or swapping décor can create a cohesive and refreshed look throughout your home,” she adds. “For a minimal investment, consider purchasing one or a couple of new items that can complement your existing décor, like a stylish rug, a set of throw pillows or a statement piece of art.”

Photos: Courtesy of INspiration Interiors/Kimber Shaw

Shaolin Low, Studio Shaolin/Woven by Shaolin
“I love adding wallpaper whenever I can,” says Low. “It’s amazing how wallpaper can completely transform the vibe of a room, regardless of your budget.”

The interior designer and home goods retailer suggests adding decorative wall coverings on a single wall in your room or hallway, or painting it with a bold color or mural. “This adds a touch of personality and creates a focal point without the need to paint the entire room.”

To make small spaces appear lighter and airier, “keep windows open and clear of heavy drapery. … Instead, use sheer curtains to allow maximum natural light.” Low also recommends placing mirrors in small spaces “to reflect light around the room and give the illusion [that] the space is bigger than it really is.”

Photos: Courtesy of Studio Shaolin/Kalia Edwards

Photo: Courtesy of Plus Interiors

Lylah Reid-Akana, California Closets Hawaii and Plus Interiors
“My favorite budget-friendly interior design tip for homeowners is to combine affordable or sentimental pieces with a few more expensive investment pieces that you intend to keep as heirlooms to pass down or last for many years,” says Reid-Akana, sales and design manager.

To make a small space feel less stuffy, she recommends incorporating furnishings, accessories and décor in light colors. Pieces made with organic elements such as wood or natural textiles, as well as the addition of living plants, can quickly freshen up a room.

She agrees with Zedalis that inexpensive updates with paint and lighting “can make a big difference in the vibe of a space — it will change mood, excitement, function, etc.” Reid-Akana also notes that selecting new hardware finishes for cabinetry, drawers and other areas is an easy design upgrade.

Editor’s Note: This article has been slightly modified from the original print version for optimal online reading. To view the full print story, pick up your copy of Hawaii Home + Remodeling at one of our partner locations.