Elegant decor updates need not break the bank

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Published Date 4/24/2024

Ever notice how some of the most elegant clothing and beautiful home decor have some of the simplest designs? The Spruce’s Sheila Kim says if you feel it’s time to refresh your home but fear the cost and work involved, think again. “You don’t need to break the bank or hire a professional to revamp your home or a single room. Nor do you have to go on a shopping spree to completely overhaul your home’s decor.”

She spoke with expert designers to learn what updates—large and small—homeowners can DIY on a budget while still packing a visual punch. When it comes to updating a space on your own while on a shoestring budget, first and foremost think paint. Boring transforms into rich, bold, soothing, or playful, with good color choices. One designer Kim consulted recommends combining different paint colors whether it's keeping the walls light and using a pop of color on the trim or just the doors to help elevate the space.

Paint is among the least expensive changes you can make, has a low threshold for tools and skill, but can create a big impact by just changing the color of a room. Don’t forget to start with a test swatch before fully diving into a color, as it can change dramatically from room to room depending on lighting, including natural light.

Wallpaper is another game changer. While there are expensive wall coverings, there are also plenty of easy-to-apply peel-and-stick options that are budget-friendly while still eye-catching. Best of all, the latter can be changed on the fly when you get tired of the visuals or colors.

Consider changing up some of the accessories that adorn those larger pieces of furniture and rooms in general, says Kim. New pillows, art, throws, and ottomans make a world of difference. Look for great curated accessories that feel special to you and your space. Try antique stores and online shops like Etsy or 1st Dibs — great places to find intentional and one-of-a-kind pieces. Then layer them.

Decorative hardware is much like jewelry whether they’re door handles and levers, cabinet pulls, light switches, or electric outlet faceplates. They’re super simple and inexpensive to replace, assuming that the existing hardware is standard in size. Remove a piece and bring it into a hardware or home store to check the size against stocked items.

How about a window treatment update? It’s an effortless way to dress up a room and make it feel more finished, offering you an opportunity to add texture or pattern to a space. If velvets or linens are out of budget, there are various inexpensive window treatment options on the market. Swap out standard blinds or shades with Roman shades in a linen or similar-quality fabric. And don’t forget to consider the finials, any visible mounts, and pulls.

Adding details to your walls, such as molding, trim, beadboard, or wainscoting can add dimension to any room. While most believe they need a contractor for this kind of work, surprisingly, molding and paneling are very DIY-friendly. “Just take extra care in measuring, using a level, and scanning the wall for studs as well as elements you wish to avoid such as electrical wires or pipes,” says Kim. Tongue-and-groove, beadboard, and all types of wainscoting give off an expensive look and can completely elevate any space from bathrooms to bedrooms.

TheSpruce, TBWS

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