Introducing Decorating on a Budget – How I Will Create a Home Library Under $500

I’ve always wanted a home library. I was that little girl, swooning over Belle’s libary in Beauty and the Beast. To say I have been green with envy over others’ home libary, would be an understatement.

Now that we’ve moved into a much larger house, I actually HAVE the space (and dedicated room) to create and decorate my own home libary.

Dreams really do come true!

I had this wild idea that I could do it on a low budget. Since I do have many things already. Read: I have thousands of books. I also have some decor items already, and two cube organizer shelves. 

But.

I’m pretty sure I can create a beautiful home library, and start Decorating on a budget. And I want to share my items, tips, and how tos! 

Decorating on a Budget

Plan & Budget

The Plan: to furnish and decorate the room into my own personal library/sitting room. This includes additional furniture, book shelves, decor, window treatments, etc.

I want add some chairs/area to sit. Not necessarily a couch or love seat though. I will also add at least one low sitting table or bench with a coffee pot (always been my thing, even if I don’t use it) some baskets, and plants.

I will also be making my own corner canopy – this will include a DIY post.

Above is the color pallet I tend to use. The palette will primarily be of purple, black and gray, with green as an accent color for pillows, plants, etc. 

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The Budget: $500

I’m starting with the following items, and will NOT be included in the budgting:

• Books currently owned
• Wall decor (anything NEW will be counted towards the budget. All existing items will be itemized, so a cost estimate will be included).
• Shelf knick knacks
• Light fixture (came with the house)

The following items WILL be included in the budget:

• 2 – Six cube organizers in black
• Books purchased after 9/1/2019

You May Also Like: 5 Tips for Creating a Home Library

The Space

This room is actually considered to be the “formal dining room” of the house. It’s the first room on the left when walking into the front door, which honestly, we don’t really plan to use (the front door, or as a formal dining room).

There isn’t a door INTO the room, which shall be interesting, but I can make it work. And it has a chandelier already in the room that has gold finishing; which I hate. But alas.

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As of right now, I don’t know the actual dimentions of the room, but it’s a pretty good size! 

The Process

As of right now, I have 4 additional posts planned:

• Decor
• Furniture Haul
• DIY Canopy 
• Final Before and After

I will be posting more of my updates on Instagram and Facebook, so be sure to be following me there. Until next time,

Let’s Chat

• What are some decor projects you have done?
• Do you have your own personal libary?
• Is there something specific you would like for me to share during this process?