DESIGN ON A BUDGET

Designer Look on a Budget

Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Wallpaper is not only expensive, hiring a professional installer to hang it is costly. Peel and stick wallpapers are a brilliant solution for the DIY enthusiast. I used it in lieu of a tile backsplash in my kitchen for a fun and durable look without the $1000 price tag that comes with a professionally installed backsplash. In just 4 hours, I had this installed myself for a mere $50. You can use peel and stick wallpaper in a variety of ways and there are a ton of cool looks. It works great not only on walls, but on the backs of an open bookcase or lined on the inside of a tray. It’s also perfect for renters wanting to personalize your home because you can easily peel it off when you leave.

Synchronized Floral Pink Peel and Stick Wallpaper from www.roommatesdecor.com.

Epoxy Countertops

One of the biggest costs in a kitchen remodel are the countertops. Quartz and granite can cost thousands of dollars, but you can get the same or similar looks for just a few hundred dollars with a little sweat equity in pouring your own epoxy countertops. Epoxy countertop kits are gaining in popularity, not only because they are inexpensive, but also because you can create a ton of custom looks with them and there is the added bonus that they are extremely durable and resilient to high heat. I did epoxy over my existing laminate countertops 3 years ago and they still look as good as the day that they were completed. I used the Premium White Marble FX Poxy Countertop Kit from www.countertopepoxy.com

Photo from www.countertopepoxy.com

Stencils

Like the peel and stick wallpaper, stencils can add a designer look at a low cost, but they are even more versatile because you can use them to change just about anything that can be painted, including floors. Dated tile flooring can be frustrating to work around if you are updating and do not want to spend thousands to replace. A stencil and some durable epoxy paint are just the trick to modernize a tired old floor. Stencils are also excellent for an accent wall or on furniture too. There are so many tutorials you can find online from other DIY enthusiasts who have excellent tips and tricks on how to paint flooring that will last. My favorite source for stencils is Royal Design Studio. I have used many of their stencils on furniture and walls, including this powder bathroom I did at the 2018 Topeka Designers’ Showhouse.

Sarah Kellogg has been designing interiors for over 18 years in the Lawrence, Kansas City and Topeka areas. In 2010, she started her own company, Sarah Kellogg Interiors, focusing on residential and small office interior design. Sarah’s passion for helping clients fulfill their envision and truly listening to her client’s desires and needs has made her a forerunner in her field. Sarah is also passionate about using her talents to give back to her community. She has been involved in the Topeka Designers’ Showhouse for the past several years as well as serving on the Women Build committee benefitting Habitat for Humanity. Her passion for helping people and community involvement are what drive her to be successful in her work everyday.