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Sometimes the budget doesn’t allow for a full room makeover. Other times the room doesn’t need a complete transformation, just a few small updates. Maybe you’re hoping to make a big impact with minimal effort or money. Whatever your scenario, here are 7 ways you can update your home for less than $100.
I debated even including this option because it seems like such an obvious answer, but the more I thought about it, the more I was reminded of the power of paint. In fact, it might be the most transformative thing you can do to a room. Going from bright to moody, dim to cheery, or simply trying out a new hue, it makes a huge impact on the overall aesthetic and mood of the room.
But beyond walls, you can paint tired furniture that’s seen better days to bring it new life. Paint a contrasting color on your trim and baseboards. Or paint your ceiling a fun color to spice things up. So many possibilities with just a gallon of paint.
If the tile on your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room walls have seen better days, or if you want to add tile to a blank wall, perhaps peel and stick tiles can remedy the issue. They’re easy to cut and install which makes it a quick and rewarding project.
Artwork in itself is so versatile which makes it a great way to freshen up a room. If you’re hesitant to paint an entire room, adding a large piece of artwork in a color palette you love is a great way to update a room without the commitment of paint.
Look for original paintings or sketches in antique frames at flea markets or antique shops. Not only does original art create a conversation piece in your home, but they’re also worth something if you ever decide to sell them. If original artwork is hard to come by or is too expensive, you can purchase digital downloads and print them at my favorite print shop. Just be sure to pair printed art with antique or distressed frames so the art as a whole doesn’t look like it came from a department store.
Moody and earthy pieces mixed with sketches and still life. I sifted through thousands of copyright free artwork to find pieces that evoke a feeling of peace, solitude, and tranquility.
Take it up a notch and install a picture rail on the wall. One of my favorite features in art galleries and historic homes are the picture rails that hold the artwork by a gold chain. It’s an elegant upgrade from the standard nail in the wall. With just a few picture rail boards, some strong construction adhesive and nails, and a gold chain, you can create an elevated row of artwork in a living room, hallway, bedroom, or even the kitchen if you’re feeling spicy.
One of my fondest memories as a kid was spending a whole Saturday rearranging my bedroom and then showing it off to my parents at the end of the day. It was the greatest feeling to walk into a space that felt brand new! Without buying any new furniture or decor, you can completely alter the feeling of the room. Even if the new arrangement doesn’t last long because it doesn’t fit your needs, you may find a new appreciation for the previous arrangement.
When it comes the exterior, the front door is the focal point. If the focal point is dull or uninteresting, you’re missing out on a prime opportunity to have a charming facade. With just a gallon of paint, you can paint your front door and the trim around it. Add even more curb appeal by giving your shutters a new color too. Check out these homes for paint color inspiration.
If you have an upholstered headboard that’s dated, some new fabric can bring it back to present day styles. No need to remove the existing fabric and no sewing skills required. Just stretch the new fabric over the headboard and staple it to the back. See this tutorial as a perfect example.
When wallpaper is out of the budget, you can always turn to painted patterns. Stripes for example, can have a similar effect as wallpaper. Just be sure to use this paint hack to keep the paint from bleeding underneath the tape.
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