If you’ve looked around your home recently and thought it seemed a little stale or too cluttered, there are some easy ways you can transform any room; you just have to get a little creative.
Making changes doesn’t have to mean breaking your budget, either. It’s all about finding small ways to spruce up the space and make it more inviting and relaxing. You can even use some design tricks to make a room appear bigger than it is.
Whether you live in an apartment or a two-story house, changing up your decor and making small renovations can make a space feel larger and suit your needs better. Take a look at your window treatments, flooring, and shelving; do they do what you want them to do? Are they outdated or does your decor get lost because there’s not enough light? Evaluate your home’s strengths and weaknesses before making any decisions.
Here are a few of the best–and easiest–ways to transform your home on a budget.
Declutter
You may think your home doesn’t have much in the way of clutter, but when we see the same things everyday, they lose their impact, meaning you might not even realize how many things you have in your home that you can get rid of. Walk around with a discerning eye; look through cabinets and drawers. If you have a shelf full of baking supplies from Christmas that will never be used again, toss them, or donate anything that’s salvageable. Paperback books that have only been read once, jewelry that you haven’t worn in a year or more, and dishes that have been collecting dust are all great things to consider donating to Goodwill or the Salvation Army.
Decluttering not only helps you get your house into shape, it’s also great for your mental health. Having a clean, organized space can help you feel more in control of your life and boost your energy, as well. Just keep in mind that broken items, clothing that has worn spots or stains, and baby items (such as a stroller or car seat) can’t be donated. If you have quite a few items for kids, consider taking them to a kids’ consignment store (as long as they aren’t more than a couple of years old and are gently used).
For more info on how to get started with decluttering and some great tips on where to take anything you don’t want, read on here.
Bring in some green
If you don’t currently have any houseplants, throw some into the mix to add some green to your space. Plants are not just visually pleasing, they also improve the air quality in your home and can reduce the amount of carbon your family produces.
If you don’t have much of a green thumb, consider raising succulents. These spiny plants don’t need as much care as others do and can be clustered together on a counter, table, or windowsill for an adorable effect.
Splash on some paint
Painting a few things around your home can really change them up and transform a room. Doors, walls, and even appliances such as refrigerators can be given a splash of color. Just be sure to prime first, and ask a professional at the hardware store about the different finishes (matte vs. gloss, for instance).
Upgrade your lighting
Take off that old light fixture in your living room and replace it with a cute lampshade, or find your own lighting solutions at a home improvement store. Many fixtures are available that won’t break the bank, and they can really give a room a whole new look and feel. The lighting in any space can make it feel warm and inviting or cool and relaxing, so do some research before making any changes.
Remember that making small changes can be extremely budget-friendly, so try to avoid doing anything too big all at once. Take it slow and go room-by-room to see what areas need the most attention.