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This is a collaborative post. All opinions are my own.
I mentioned yesterday that I've gotten disillusioned with decorating (and redecorating) the same spaces over and over. But to be fair, sometimes we just want to refresh our home a little bit, even if it's just for our own sanity. I think that's especially understandable right now, after several months of Covid-19 lockdown. We're sick and tired of not being able to hug our friends and family, of trying to stay six feet away from strangers, of not being able to travel...and we're done with looking at our own homes. If you're totally over your current home view, here are some smart and effective ways to refresh it without spending a bunch of money.
Clean & organize
The start of the lockdown roughly coincided with the dawning of spring, so many of us already took the opportunity to do a spring cleaning...but few of us could have imagined that we’d be spending sooo much time at home. Now, here we are in July, and things show no sign of returning to "the old normal" any time soon. If your home is starting to get messy, dirty, and disorganized again, there's nothing more satisfying than getting it back into shape. Take it a step further and go through your storage to really evaluate what you want to keep, and what you could donate or sell.
Shop your storage
While you're going through those boxes in the basement or garage, keep an eye out for decor pieces that you could still use. I always find a few good surprises when I go through our storage. It's almost like shopping my own personal thrift store of things I've forgotten about (already curated by my past self). And giving new life to your old stuff is a great way to refresh your decor without going to the store or spending a single cent.
Paint or reupholster an old piece of furniture
Another thing to look for while you're going through your storage? Any "project" pieces of furniture that are languishing there. Getting new furniture does not have to mean pulling out of the credit card. In fact, old furniture was typically built with better materials and more quality construction, so it's worth breathing new life into an old piece that's still solid, but a little run-down or outdated. By sprucing up what you already have, you can save money and get the satisfaction of doing it yourself, to your specific tastes. Try applying a fresh coat of paint to your preloved dining table and chairs, or reupholstering your sofa instead of getting a new one (take a look at this guide).
Rearrange the furniture
Another way to make your furniture feel new--even if it's not? Switch up the arrangement! While you're at it, move pieces from one room to another. Look for things like end tables, baskets, benches, armchairs, rugs, and art that can work in multiple different spaces. Creating a whole new look with things you already own is probably my favorite way to redecorate.
Replace carpet with wood look vinyl planks
This one isn't cheap or free, but it's a worthwhile update that will make a huge difference now and will give you a great return on investment when it comes time to sell. Replace that carpet!!! If there have been years of feet and paws tracking dirt, dust, dander and other nasties across it, it's probably time. The good news is that nowadays, expensive hardwood is not your only good option. Wood look vinyl flooring has come a long ways; it looks and feels practically identical, and costs a fraction of what you’d pay for hardwood. Not only that, but it's nearly indestructible, which makes it perfect for households with kids and pets...and it means it'll still look fantastic for years to come.
Update a wall
Sure, wallpaper sounds like a good idea on...paper. But when you want a bold and eye catching print that brings new life into your space, you may be suprrised by how much the cost jumps upwards. Even if you just need it for a feature wall. Instead, focus on adding a fresh coat of paint and a statement art piece to your wall. It’s not only more affordable, it can also be more impactful.
Make your house smell good
Finally, an easy way to make you love your house a bit more is by making it smell nice. But wait, stop wasting your money on those plug-in deodorizers and expensive refills. Instead, invest in houseplants to improve the quality of your air and essential oil diffusers to spread fresh and calming scents through your home. More affordable, fresher smelling, and better for the environment, too!
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Smart tips on refreshing your home on a budget! Decluttering and rearranging furniture are great ways to give your space a new look without spending a lot of money.