It can be an extremely expensive endeavor to redesign a home. If resources are limited, don’t be discouraged. Consider ways you can use what is already in the home to enhance the look and cut down on costs. Bringing in just a few essential items can change the tone of a space and have a big impact. Here are some ideas.

 Architect, Monica Gibson offers up tips to create a more inviting space.

1. Add indoor plants

Adding plants in your living space is one of the easiest and best ways to transform your home. Plants usher in natural beauty and color to any room in the most affordable way. Regardless of the space you have, growing indoor plants is ideal for any room.

Try different ways of placing them to change the look of rooms. If you have less space, hang plants or place them on floating shelves. You also can use plants on the floor where space is available.

Do not let lack of natural light keep you from transforming your home with indoor plants. Invest in reliable grow lights to provide lighting to your plants. You now have a solution for brightening that boring corner in your living room.

2. Repaint the walls

Photo credit: Dunn-Edwards (paint color: Minty Fresh)

Another way to instantly transform your home on a budget is by adding a fresh coat of paint to the walls. You can decide to use the existing hue, or you can change it to a different shade for a fresher look. The latter, however, would mean changing a few accessories in the home to create a balanced feeling. Need some color inspiration? Take a look at 2020’s hottest paint colors

3. Swap Out window treatments

Many people underestimate the effect window treatments can have on a room. The color, texture, and fabric—and even how treatments are placed—can have a huge impact on the overall look of any room. Therefore, changing window treatments can transform a space without having to spend a fortune.

Consider creating an illusion of a high ceiling by raising the window panels to the top of walls. Opt for materials such as cotton, linen, and silk to add greater elegance to the windows. If you prefer having blinds, wood and woven bamboo always make for a great choice.

4. Replace the pillows

Another underestimated way to greatly make your home more elegant: pillows—lots of them. Pillows can bring life to your living space. They also offer extra support on the sofa.

Consider replacing your old pillows and throw pillows for fuller ones. When it comes to throw pillows, experiment with colors and textures. If they are not worn out, just replace the covers with ones that have different colors and textures. Get more tips on using pillows in your staging.

5. Use wall hangings

A budget-friendly alternative to repainting the walls is to use wall hangings. Invest in unique art pieces, or have some customized. You can even add a painting that you made yourself to create a more personalized feel. Family portraits also make a great choice when it comes to wall hangings. But keep in mind that home stagers will often advise removing any personal photos prior to selling a home.

6. Get rid of old furniture

That old, ugly chair that you are holding on to for sentimental value is the undoing in your living room. You don’t want furniture that looks worn. Don’t worry about the cost of replacing it. Instead, take advantage of the empty space to rearrange the rest of the furniture for a fresh look.

Alternatively, find an affordable replacement in second-hand shops. You can always change the upholstery to have it match the rest of your furniture.

Take heart: There’s an endless list of design ideas to achieve a luxurious effect without breaking the bank. Keep in mind that labor costs are usually the biggest expense. If you eliminate that cost by doing more work yourself, you can find more savings. Also, be strategic by just replacing a few key items.

Avoid a complete redesign. Instead, change little pieces; it can go a long way.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Monica Gibson is an architect, with a degree in architecture. She has eight-plus years of experience in interior and exterior design. Her mission is to inspire others to live their dreams and create their perfect sweet home. Lena puts a big effort into working with her clients and tries to help them in the best way she can.