Listed Sisters Stars Alana And Lex LeBlanc On Their Best Tips For Designing On A Budget
Who doesn't like free things? With the ongoing success of their HGTV show "Listed Sisters," twins Alana and Lex LeBlanc know how to get things done without spending more money than necessary. Originally from Las Vegas, the LeBlanc sisters have made a name for themselves in the home renovation world as they assist homeowners to fix up their homes before they go to market. You might pay a professional designer $200 or more an hour for a similar service, not including furnishing costs (per Forbes). But, with years of reno experience, the real estate pro (Alana) and interior designer (Lex) have gained more than enough know-how to touch up otherwise outdated or shabby homes using budget-friendly means.
From sourcing simple replacements for outdated decor to freshening up a room with a new paint color, the innovative duo can improve a home's appearance and value with panache. "Paint alone can completely transform a space," explains Lex LeBlanc, (via Metro). It's no surprise that neutral shades like gray with a white base contrast are routinely highlighted in many of the sisters' projects. "A lighter color goes a long way to make the space feel larger," she continues.
Explore removable wallpaper patterns
Besides touching up your walls with light paint colors, you might opt for an alternative, less expensive idea. While wallpaper and paint can be rather expensive, you might try fashioning the pages of some of your favorite publications or magazines onto a wall. Lex LeBlanc stated she once used paper sheets from an old book to wallpaper her bathroom (via Metro). Whether it's an accent wall or the entire room, papering bathrooms and other walls is not new, as options are unceasing regarding designs and patterns. However, using printed text or colorful images can add extra visual interest.
While wallpaper adds texture and warmth to a room, so can a vintage manuscript, per House Nerd. With limited materials, such as glue or primer, you'll save big on your project while transforming a room in the process. Furthermore, if you rent and have a little more within your budget, the "Listed Sisters" suggest applying a removable wallpaper, like peel and stick, which comes in various brands and designs.
Reclaim furnishings that add character
Restore. Repurpose. These are words to live by when establishing new ground within your home's design with a modest budget. Something old can become something new with fresh paint or stain. Alana LeBlanc explains, "Refinishing and giving new life to an old piece of furniture adds character to the space, and it's also affordable," (via Metro). Every piece has a story, especially antique wooden furniture, or walls, which can easily be returned to their original condition or revitalized with a pop of color for a modern flare.
In addition to revamping some of your older pieces, you might also make subtle revisions to areas and fixtures that feel dull. Alana LeBlanc adds, "Switch out your pillows, update rugs and curtains," as swapping out these everyday home décor items will provide an instant revival. Likewise, you might replace outdated handles and doorknobs in the kitchen or bathroom that express an outdated look rather than bringing in entirely new cabinets. With these minor adjustments, you may make small upgrades while saving up for a heftier project later.
Rearrange your existing furniture cost-free
Whether new or used, furniture can be expensive. While keeping costs low during a renovation is sometimes necessary, the LeBlanc sisters can speak from their own experience of sharing a bedroom while growing up and how simple and effective rearranging your furniture can be. "We used to move our furniture around every week," Lex LeBlanc explains (via Metro). This inexpensive approach can easily bring newfound life to a worn-out arrangement.
For years, the LeBlanc twins benefited from this cost-free technique while gaining a creative release. From rearranging your bedroom pieces to shifting the living and dining areas, changing the position of your furnishings may initiate a refocus of energy and purpose while not costing you money. You might even consider exchanging rooms to complement a better function in your daily life. However you go about it, you don't have to exhaust the bank when personal efforts are applied.