These days, renovating your home has become a popular thing to do. And why not? It can increase the value of your home whilst providing a fresh, new, pleasing aesthetic to live in. But when money is tight, the option to renovate is postponed and you’re left with the same old views day after day. Whatever your reasons are for renovating, it may take some time to get your finances in order so in the meantime, here are some creative ways to switch it up a little without breaking the bank.
- GIVE ANY ROOM A FRESH COAT OF PAINT
One of the best ways to transform any room is to simply give it a fresh coat of paint. It doesn’t even matter if you’re using the same colour, you’d be surprised how new a room can feel with freshly painted walls. And the best thing about painting is you can do it yourself! Painting is fairly inexpensive and it’s a great way to keep yourself busy updating any rooms you don’t plan to renovate any in the future.
2. REFINISH YOUR KITCHEN CABINETS The kitchen is one of the most popular areas to renovate but cabinets and appliances can be very expensive. If you like the layout of your kitchen and its storage system, then a great, affordable way to give it a quick update is to refinish your cabinets. Depending on the material of your cabinets, you may need to speak to a professional before applying any old type of paint, but it’s the best way to achieve the look of a brand new kitchen without the cost.
3. FRAME YOUR OWN ARTWORK It’s hard sometimes when you have no idea what to put on your big, blank walls. But instead of investing in overpriced artwork or heavy, expensive mirrors, you should consider hanging some of your own work, or the work of someone you know. It could be in the form of your own personal painting or a beautiful family photograph that your friend took. If neither of these are options for you, a simple stock photo from online can be printed and framed. It’s the perfect way to help personalise your home whilst saving money in the long run.
4. ADD CHEAP STORAGE OPTIONS Everyone needs more storage! It’s a never ending problem for most of us, with too many things to store and not enough places to store them. Luckily, your local cheap shop can accommodate your budget! Utilising small baskets in cubby holes or hanging racks in the wardrobe are a couple of ideas to make storing clothing and other small items a breeze. It also helps keep your house looking organised and tidy, and this way, you won’t have to spend money on expensive joinery options.
5. INSTALL PENDANT LIGHTING Lighting is a huge factor that contributes to your homes ambience so luckily, lighting can be very affordable to change. You can opt to change the colour of your globes and even its brightness, and along with an affordable pendant from your local Bunnings, IKEA, or light store, you can uplift the rooms feel with the flick of a switch!
6. INSTALL WAINSCOTING WALL PANELLING Wainscoting is a broader term referring to decorative panelling on walls. It’s been used for centuries for things such as wall accents, insulation and to prevent or cover up damage to walls. It’s typically made of wood and usually just covers the lower portion of an interior wall. It really is up to you what kind of design to choose but it’s a great way to add style and enhance any space to create a stunning Hamptons vibe or add substance to a modern or traditional home.
7. REARRANGE YOUR FURNITURE Furniture contributes a lot to the overall vibe of a room but it also tends to cost a lot of money. A tight budget certainly won’t allow for the purchase of a new couch or dining table which is why dusting off that Feng Shui book and rearranging your furniture can add some freshness to a tired space. You can do this to all the rooms in your house, they will feel completely different and the best thing is it doesn’t cost a thing!
8. REPLACE ACCESSORIES When renovating, our attention generally goes towards the big changes like the removal of an internal wall or the type of tile in the bathroom and it’s the smaller things that often get overlooked. A great way to ‘renovate’ without breaking the budget is to simply replace those smaller household items that are littered throughout most of the home. For example, couch cushions, bed throws, lamp and indoor plants. These are things you can add or replace that create a better atmosphere without the hefty cost.
These creative tips are a great way to stay satisfied whilst saving up or sorting out your finances for that big renovation you’re planning. But even if you don’t plan on renovating, a quick refresh of some elements can turn your house into a home without the hefty price tag!