Home 6| Ask a designer: creating a bold, black and white home on a budget

“What are some ways that I can improve my home without spending a lot of money?”

When interior designer Mia Gustafsson created this bold family apartment, sticking to a tight budget was her top priority. From furnishing with simple basics to accessorising with light, she shares some of the money-saving ideas that brought this home to life.

Black and white staples as the starting point

With this home, Mia decided to go all in and embrace black and white in every room across the home, from the furniture to the floors and even the walls. And while trends may come and go, this bold, classic colour combination will hold its own for seasons and seasons to come.

The power of textiles

To soften up the straight lines and square shapes of the furniture, and add in some texture, Mia worked in layers of different textiles with the lowest possible price tags. In the living room for instance, there’s a playful mix and match of cushions on the sofa, and a collage of recycled-cotton TIPHEDE rugs covering the floor.

No one quite like you, no home quite like yours

One of the most beautiful and original things you can add to your home is your own personal story – which you can show for next to nothing. Throughout the home, particularly on storage solutions, Mia displayed different collections of things that the people living here care about. Family photos, flea-market finds, travel souvenirs and hand-me-down treasures: they really give this home a loved and lived-in feeling.

Last, but not least: lighting

The same law applies for both selfies and home furnishing... good lighting is everything! Mia really believes it’s one of the most underrated and wallet-friendly ways to give your home an instant makeover. The trick is to combine several light sources for different purposes in each room: like a pendant lamp that illuminates the whole room, or a floor lamp to brighten up the seat of your favourite chair.