Affordable Home Makeovers That Give the Impression of Luxury
Many of us have a lengthy list of home modifications we'd implement if funds weren't an issue. However, home enhancements don't need to be an all-or-nothing affair. Numerous minor alterations, freshening up, and decor swaps can be carried out in a weekend or even just an afternoon. These modifications won't deplete your bank account extensively. Below, discover budget-friendly home enhancements that will appear much more expensive than they actually are.
Upgrade Your Builder-Grade Lighting
It's time to swap out those old ceiling lights. These flush mount lights are common in many homes and are often faced with negative feedback from the design community. While boob lights and other builder-grade lighting can blend into the background, they may not be noticeable unless you have a strong aversion to them. However, replacing this lighting can significantly transform a utilitarian space into a remarkable design element, and it doesn't require a significant investment. You can opt for a popular lantern style light or explore various pendant lighting options from IKEA under $100. Swapping out the overhead lighting with something that disperses light more evenly can also create a more welcoming, cozy home atmosphere.
While you're at it, pay close attention to overlooked features in your home that could benefit from a budget upgrade, like the basic light switches. By focusing on the minutiae of your home over time, you will ultimately give your home a more custom and expensive appearance.
Introduce Trim or Molding
If you're aiming for a more upscale appearance in your home but feel like it's falling short, it might be because your walls are, in fact, too plain. Adding depth to your walls – through box trim, crown molding, or some form of paneling – can instantly boost your home's character. And you don't need to hire a contractor to achieve the look of a chateau in Paris. DIY projects with a nail gun are easily within reach, or if you're looking to save even more time and effort, peel-and-stick wall molding is available at a low cost.
Display Fresh Flowers or Greenery
A common motif in virtually every celebrity home tour video or photo shoot is the presence of fresh flowers. In reality, most of these individuals (and the rest of us) can't maintain fresh flowers within their homes 24/7, and that's perfectly reasonable. However, incorporating fresh flowers or greenery into your home can rapidly improve its appearance ++ before guests arrive or for personal enjoyment.
Incorporate More Artwork
The simplest method to make your home appear more upscale is to substitute smaller prints and artwork with large-scale, gallery-style pieces. Large-scale art is often pricey, but you can save significantly by sourcing artwork secondhand. While it may take some time to visit various local thrift stores and antique shops, the investment in time will quickly pay off when you have a unique, one-of-a-kind piece for your home.
If large-scale art isn't your preference, a gallery wall is another excellent option for creating a thoughtfully curated and intentionally styled appearance. Arrange artwork of different sizes to create an intriguing yet balanced look. Additionally, consider incorporating unconventional objects, such as an antique mirror or small plant, to create a truly distinctive display. Attention to detail is a foolproof technique to elevate your home design.
Paint the Walls
While painting projects can feel like a larger undertaking, it's one of the least expensive ways to make a significant impact on your home interior without performing any remodeling. However, painting tasks aren't exactly inexpensive—according to Forbes, it costs an average of $200 to $300 to DIY paint a standard-sized room, not including the cost of any additional painting equipment required. The costs rise considerably when hiring a professional painter.
However, painting is a more affordable home investment project compared to remodeling costs, and it can revamp your home interiors without the need for any renovations.
Apply Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
If you're seeking an affordable method to refresh your walls, peel-and-stick wallpaper is an ideal option. It offers solid hues as an alternative to a new coat of paint, or you can opt for a more striking pattern to add a design flair to your space. Patterned wallpaper can be particularly effective in small spaces, such as a bathroom or entryway. Consequently, if you've been considering a bathroom renovation but can't afford the expense, peel-and-stick wallpaper in a luxurious or whimsical print can provide the impression of an upgrade without the hefty price tag.
Conceal the Cords
Unsightly cords can detract from your best home design efforts. While completely removing them is not an option, there are several budget-friendly ways to conceal them and minimize their impact on your carefully crafted home aesthetic. Disguising your cords is a minor change that can improve the appearance of any room while eliminating visual clutter that detracts from your home's design.
After transforming your builder-grade lighting with budget-friendly options, consider upgrading your basic light switches as well. This small detail can contribute to a more custom and expensive appearance of your home. (Referencing 'Home', 'Home Improvement', 'Decorating Tips and Techniques')
To give your home a more upscale appearance, think about adding trim or molding, such as crown molding. This simple yet effective home improvement project can instantly boost your home's character without requiring professional help or a large investment. (Referencing 'Home', 'Home Improvement', 'Decorating Tips and Techniques', 'RealSimple', 'Decorating')
