Smart Shopping For The Home

Sometimes, finding solutions to your interior design dilemmas can be difficult. This month Inspired Living a Khaleej Times home magazine asked me for my take on smart shopping for the home.

Below are my answers on how to update your space, become a smarter shopper, and keep your decorating budget under control.

1. My house has looked the same for ten years now. And even I feel a bit stuck in a style rut. How can you tell if you and your space are ready for a style update?

I think you need to look at how your feeling in your life, if you generally feel stuck in a rut – then its definitely time for change! Also many expats often fall into the trap of I am just here on a temporary basis and don’t need to make that extra effort in their living environment.

I think that we all should feel our home is our sanctuary and enjoy the space you live in, sleep in, repair your body in – it truly important a good investment in yourself and your life.

I truly believe investing in your home environment will pay back great dividends in your life!2. I often find myself picking up things impulsively for the home at sales and then not knowing where to fit them in once I get back. How do I break this habit and be a smarter shopper for my home?

I think just like a financial plan, you should look at your home interior plan. What is it that you really need? There is no point buying cushions if you need new blinds.

Secondly there is no point buying another cheap photo frame, I believe you should list all the things you truly want and need and when you see them, then you know that its the right time to buy!3. What are your top tips for creating a stylish space without breaking the bank? 

When you do your budgets and make your mind up to give the house a new look, you first do a mood board of what you want, (I find Pinterest an excellent tool for images of home ideas).

You then go and price everything up. Ace is great for paint, Satwa is great for recovering fabrics and getting cushions made, then of course there Dubizzle and the shops for the items you want to purchase.

When you have made your mind up with the design and the cost, then you work that into your monthly budgets. It took my husband and I two years to complete our house.

We did one room at a time when we could afford it. Taking your time is ok too, infact it lets you truly appreciate that one room. Life is not a rush and there is no point in doing this at all if you are going to be ridden with guilt and credit card debt!

By taking time to think ahead, your interior will look its best. Remember to have a game plan before heading out to the shops, and always keep an open mind.

I hope you enjoyed today’s post!

Janelle xoxo