The upkeep of a home is never-ending. In addition to ensuring that all central systems are functioning properly, keeping the aesthetics up-to-date is a regular job.

Admittedly, a room starts to appear lackluster if its decor is left unaltered for too long. A fresh look will enliven the space, making it more comfortable and inviting.

Apart from longtime owners, many first-time property buyers consider renovating when the home they purchased just doesn’t match their personal style. However, refurbishing either an old or new space can be costly.

If you want to switch up the look of a room while keeping the budget small, here are some easy and inexpensive ways you can explore.

1. Bring in a splash of color

Play with clean, refreshing colors such as light yellow, lime green, or ocean blue. Use muted, desaturated tones sparingly to avoid a dull, repetitive vibe. If you’re not keen on a paint job, simply decorate with vividly colored items. Whether it’s a bright vase or art, the added vibrance will make a striking difference to your space.

2. Spruce up dated furniture with throws

Brand new furniture can be expensive. Instead of replacing old pieces, try disguising them with throws or slipcovers. This will not only transform your furniture but also make the room cozy and homey. Choose fabrics with interesting textures and patterns for a varied look. You can also get the slipcover tailored to fit your furniture better.

3. Add some greenery

Nothing screams “fresh” more than live green plants. Aside from their relaxing botanical colors, some houseplants like the bamboo palm and dragon tree also have air-purifying properties. However, if you’re worried about having a black thumb, you can start with low-maintenance plants such as succulents. Other good options include peace lilies, yuccas, and aloe veras.

4. Repot your houseplants

If you already happen to grow houseplants, you can enhance their look by simply repotting them. Choose aesthetically pleasing, handcrafted pots.

Chic pieces with intricate carvings can elevate any space, while pots with minimal designs are great choices if you’re going for a modern look. You can also try setting up your plants on a pretty stand to keep them organized and save space.

5. Get new throw pillows

Like slipcovers, throw pillows add texture and warmth to a room. They are great for sprucing up old and disheveled furniture, as well.

Experiment with different sizes and opt for less conventional shapes like round instead of square to keep things interesting. If you want a more budget-friendly option, you can just get custom sheets for your old throw pillows instead of replacing them.

6. Dress up your window treatments.

Window treatments can cost a lot; so, rather than purchasing new ones, work on what you already have. Apply iron-on trim to plain curtain panels or add ruffles if you’re confident about your sewing skills.

You can also try your hand at Shibori dyeing to give curtains or drapes a richer color. If you’re not keen on touching the fabric, getting new rods or layering multiple items can already make a significant improvement.

7. Enliven your wall with art

Framed art can bring a sophisticated, entrancing look to your room. Moreover, unique pieces can be a good conversation starter when you have guests over.

Remember, quality art doesn’t have to be expensive. You can shop on Etsy, visit thrift stores, or even buy from local art students. Not only will you get excellent art for low prices, but you can also support small business owners and aspiring artists.

8. Set the ambiance with scented candles

In addition to visual elements, scent can affect how people experience environments. A pleasant-smelling room can brighten your mood and make you feel relaxed. Try lighting a few scented candles. Choose scents that you like and find soothing. Aside from the lovely smell, the glow of candles also bring coziness and warmth.

9. Eliminate unsightly objects

Visual clutter makes a space appear smaller than it is. Get rid of unnecessary items on countertops, shelves, and other surfaces to keep your room from looking cramped.

If you’re planning to purchase a condo unit, especially a furnished one, it’s best to identify which items you can do without before thinking of what to buy. Condo units are typically smaller, so it’s essential to maximize the available space.

Remove any worn, damaged, or dated objects. Also, if you have multiples of particular items, store them temporarily in a spare room. You can then choose whether to donate or sell them for extra cash that could go into beautifying your space.

10. Try alternative materials

Instead of splurging on high-end materials like marble, stone slab, or granite, opt for cheaper alternatives with a similar appearance. For example, you can use ceramic tile squares with granite-like designs for a more affordable but still elegant-looking countertop.

To elevate your walls or floors, you can use faux marble self-adhesive vinyl, which costs way less than real marble. Another advantage is they are easier to remove and don’t require professional work.

11. Good lighting is key

Of course, for a space to really shine, proper lighting is essential. Upgrading your room’s lighting will also give you a chance to implement environmentally friendly changes in your home. Apart from the typical choice of LED, you can explore smart lighting systems that can conveniently be linked with an app on your smartphone.

12. Upgrade your appliances

Consider replacing just a few of your outdated kitchen and bathroom appliances. While appliances can be expensive, upgrading is a more cost-effective solution in the long run.

Older appliances are susceptible to malfunctions, and repair costs can add up over the years. Also, more advanced models require less frequent maintenance and checkups than old ones. Newer models are energy-efficient, as well, helping you limit the use of water and electricity.

Not only will energy-saving appliances make your space smarter and more eco-friendly, but they can also increase your home’s resale value should you choose to put it on the market in the future.

The Takeaway

A better-looking home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Through simple swaps and a few select upgrades, you can successfully enhance the appearance of your living space while consequently making it more spacious, functional, and environmentally friendly.