Does your home feel a bit “meh” but you don’t have the expertise and money to carry out a complete overhaul? There are several methods to upgrade your home’s aesthetic without spending a lot. In this blog, we’ll share ten easy and affordable ways to refresh your home so you can transform it from “meh” to mesmerizing!
1. Deep Clean and Declutter
Aside from making your home look unwelcoming, clutter may cause stress and difficulty focusing. This shows the importance of cleanliness for peace of mind and productivity.
Clean your home by vacuuming, dusting, and mopping all surfaces to remove dirt and grime that has accumulated over time. This also prepares your home for the other tips that we’ll discuss later.
After deep cleaning, declutter thoroughly. Get rid of anything that no longer has value to you. Try donating them or having a garage sale. And finally, organize all that’s left from your sorting. Use shelves, baskets and other organizers to keep things tidy and easily accessible.
Remember: Clutter is one of the things that make your home look cheap. Get cleaning!
2. Update Your Window Treatments
They say windows are the eyes of your home, and curtains are the eyelashes. Why not give them a well-deserved lash lift?
Consider new curtains or blinds, and choose materials that address your privacy needs and match your home’s style. Take it to a whole new level by experimenting with lengths. As a general guide, short curtains can make a room feel more spacious and longer ones can add some drama to it. And as a finishing touch, add valances or swags, as they can bring visual appeal without blocking too much light.
If those steps are too much for you, try hiring window treatment experts to eliminate doubts about whether your DIY window decor project complements your home’s aesthetic. Experts like Zana Dodig, founder of Prestige Decor, can help you decide which type of window treatments work with your space and can even suggest fabrics, hardware, automation options, etc., for a fully customized design.
3. Rearrange Your Furniture
Another way to refresh your home is to start rearranging the furniture to explore new layouts and find what works best for your needs. Keep the room’s focal point in mind and position pieces, like a sofa or bed, in a prominent spot to anchor the design. This is one of the budget-friendly home renovation tips that can significantly alter the feel of your space without spending a dime.
4. Create a Cohesive Color Palette
Another cheap and easy way to improve your home is to follow a color palette. A cohesive color palette makes your home harmonious and inviting, but that doesn’t mean everything has to match perfectly. Instead, focus on mixing different colors and textures that complement each other throughout your space.
Using two or three consistent colors can make your home feel unified. If you’re not sure where to start, try picking a piece you love, like a chair or a table decor, and use its colors as a base for your palette.
Your color palette can evolve over time. Don’t hesitate to experiment with new shades that resonate with you as you grow and change.
5. Paint and Repaint Your Home
Since we’ve already discussed color palettes, let’s dive into painting—one of the most affordable ways to update your home decor.
Focus on painting trim, doors, or furniture to give your space a fresh look without the need for a full makeover. Adding a pop of color to these accents can instantly refresh a room. You can also let your creativity run wild by using stencils, stripes, or geometric patterns to design unique and personalized touches.
Brush Up On This: Another easy way to change the look of your home is by painting your windows black. Black windows provide a striking contrast and add a modern design element. If you currently have wooden or white windows, consider painting them black for a bold transformation.
6. Fix and Add Lighting
Individuals who experience insufficient natural light in their homes are 1.4 times more likely to feel depressed and 1.5 times more likely to experience falls. This points out the importance of good lighting in maintaining both mental well-being and safety. Fortunately, enhancing the light in your home is an affordable way to create a fresher, more inviting atmosphere.
To brighten up your space, consider replacing outdated light fixtures with modern designs. Additionally, think about adding extra lighting where necessary; table lamps, floor lamps, and sconces can provide ambient lighting.
Also, remember to maximize natural light by keeping your windows clean and opening curtains during the day, allowing sunlight to flood your home.
7. Bring In Indoor Plants
Bringing plants into your home can really brighten up the space and add a touch of nature. When selecting plants, think about your lighting conditions—low-light plants are perfect for darker rooms, while sun-loving varieties, like succulents and snake plants, thrive in brighter indoor spaces.
If you’re looking for something fun and low-maintenance, why not try creating a terrarium? It’s a charming way to introduce greenery without too much effort.
8. Make the Most of Your Bay Windows
Consider adding custom shelving or seating to turn your bay windows into a bright and cozy corner or an extra storage spot. You can also dress up your bay window with window treatments—curtains or blinds specifically designed for bay windows can really make a difference.
9. Add a Cozy Rug
Rugs are a creative way to add style and refresh your home. Look for rugs that fit your overall color palette and decor style. They can also help define seating areas or soften up hard floors. Don’t be afraid to play around with different sizes and shapes—mixing rectangular, round, and oval rugs can create an inviting aura and give your space a more dynamic feel.
10. Dress Up Your Stairs
A staircase runner can add a nice touch of elegance while also providing safety. When choosing a runner, consider what works best with your home’s decor—a bold patterned runner can make a statement, while a solid color offers a more classic vibe. Just remember to install it securely using rug grippers or tack strips, so it stays in place and looks great without any slipping or wrinkling.
How To Freshen Up A House On A Budget
Our budget-friendly home renovation tips offer easy and affordable ways to transform your living space. So, just come back to this blog if you run out of ideas for refreshing your home. Remember, even slight changes can make a big difference. So, roll up your sleeves, release your creative juices, and enjoy the process.
About the Author:
Zana Dodig is a passionate expert in the field of interior design, with a particular fondness for decorating, organizing and remodeling. With over 20 years of experience, her specialization and greatest passion lies in the realm of window coverings. Her extensive knowledge and keen eye for design have led her to a successful career as a Window Treatment Consultant. In addition to her hands-on work, Zana is also a dedicated writer at PrestigeDecor.ca, where she shares her insights and expertise, helping others enhance the beauty and functionality of their homes. Her commitment to excellence and her deep understanding of interior aesthetics make her a trusted voice in the world of interior design.