Ask the designer

Interior designer Deirdre Coleman of Escale Design, Co Clare answers your questions Email: [e-mail]

Q I HAVE just bought my first home and have very little left over to decorate. how can I achieve a designer look without the price tag?

A. Start by taking another look at items you already own to see what you can reinvent, re-upholster or refinish instead of buying new. You can turn plain cushions into an eye-catching accent by stencilling simple designs on them. Custom framing, upholstery and painting are among the biggest budget busters, so do it yourself and stick to standard off-the-shelf items where possible. Think like a designer by snagging a bargain on slightly imperfect or display models, as well as checking out thrift stores, auctions and salvage yards. Consider using household items, or even found objects as unexpected accessories — such as a stack of vintage books or seashells.