Balancing Style with Function and Budget

Finding balance in decorating is harder than it may seem!  Finding that perfect style, making sure it has functionality for the space and that the decor items fit within a budget can be a whole lot harder than it sounds, especially when you throw in a new move, a husband and a handful of boys!

Many of you know that we recently moved from the sunny south to the much colder north and I’ve found myself trying to get my house decorated with style and function in mind because you know all the girly girl touches that scream my name aren’t always functional with a houseful of boys!  Of course, I have to pace myself because not only do I need to pay attention to function and style, I need to pay attention to that little old thing called a budget.  {sigh} Since Ohio is a WHOLE lot colder than in the South, we are inside many more months out of the year than we were in Texas and our home is a bit bigger than it was in Texas {cuz’ we are inside so much more!}  So, I have a bit more space to make my own, but I’m not in a huge hurry.  If there is one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that DECORATING in STYLE takes time.  {wink}

Tips for Decorating

1.  Take your time.  Don’t rush into buying something just to fill a space.  If you are not sure if it will work in the roomthink about it at least over night before purchasing.  You’ll be glad you did. 2.  Mix things up.  Try color color blocking, mixing textures or even mixing different types of wood.  If you are on a tight budget, using an eclectic mix of items from thrift stores or items that have been repurposed is such a smart way to stretch your budget!

3.  Use your space wisely.  I’m all about organizing and maximizing space.  If you have children, it’s really easy to keep grown up rooms looking “grown up” by utilizing baskets and ottomans to store toys, blankets, etc.  I love to use book shelves to both organize my books, but to display fun items while keeping them organized at the same time. 4.  Buy furniture that will stand the test of time.  For example, if you have children, don’t buy pastel colored fabric couches.  Chances are, it won’t last because the upholstry will get ruined.  It will be almost impossible to keep clean and you’ll go insane trying to do so.  Consider a leather or easy to clean fabric that is durable.  Another example?  A kitchen table  with lots of grain and ridges made of a hard wood.  That way, when your children do their homework and they press down really hard with their pencil, you won’t see their name engraved on your table top.  See what I mean? 5.  Closets matter.  They really do.  Keep ’em clean and organized and I promise your whole house will feel more in balance! 6.  Don’t ignore the floor.   I know that sounds silly but nothing kills the look of a room faster than a terrible carpet or floor.  I personally love lovely hardwood floors with gorgeous rugs.  Hardwood floors are easy to clean, they go with everything and beautiful rugs can add that bit of warmth and color that can make a room.  If you have children a stain resistant carpet such as Resista Carpet from CarpetOne is great way to achieve the balance in your home between style and function.

I’m curious to know, in your home, how do you balance your practical needs with your style wants?

You live your life on carpet. Make sure you have carpet that lets you live your life! For more information on Resista Carpet visit www.carpetone.com

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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf ofCarpetOne. The opinions and text are all mine.