For many of us, the simple thought of transforming our house into something attractive and modern can be overwhelming and costly. But with a little thought and planning, a few simple DIY projects can be tackled on a budget and help to freshen up and modernize the home.
Start by looking around your space with an open but unbiased eye, and identify what can be improved. There will likely be a string of creative ideas that come to mind, some more ambitious than others. Which can be done within the budget?
For example, many rooms in the home may need a fresh coat of paint. Consider opting for neutral tones over bright hues – they won’t go out of fashion and require less maintenance over time. Painting walls by yourself instead of hiring the professionals is a great way to save money and can have a huge impact on a bland space. And if painting is not your forte, don’t be too hard on yourself. Invest in a good quality roller and the experience will be much more enjoyable.
Alternatively if you’re looking to make a statement in an age-old living room, soften the edges with some throw pillows and a light-colored towel. Re-arranging some furniture or adding some mirrors can also give a great lift to a room. Mirrors can show off the natural light coming in from windows and make everything appear much brighter and bigger.
For the outdoor area, don’t be fooled into thinking you need a state of the art, pricey set-up for a stylish terrace. When it comes to plants, consider purchasing a few potted plants or planters which can be placed around the area. Some hanging wicker baskets or fairy lights can give the perfect uplift to an outdoor area without breaking the bank.
There’s always a creative place to start when it comes to DIY projects on a budget. A few subtle changes around the bedroom can give it a fresh modern feel. Get creative with re-painting old furniture and updating beddings or curtains, and of course making sure everything is kept neat and tidy.
For the kitchen, declutter any utensils or equipment stored around that simply plague the entire look of the space, and re-look creative ways of storage. Updating the appliances and trying out the latest designs of crockery or cups can also make all the difference.
In the bathroom, a bit of scrub, a fresh coat of paint, and some well-selected items can make a huge difference. Keep an eye out for second-hand cabinets or countertops and the same applies to bathtubs and fixtures. Consider investing in some spa-like accents, such as a wooden rack, fluffy towels or a small bowl of potpourri to give the whole space a little lift and a homey feel.
Making changes to windows and frames, no matter how minor, can also make the area look much more attractive. Consider having a few roman blinds or venetian blinds on the windows, or perhaps introduce a unique style with some If you’re looking for further ways to slim your budget, attempt some repairs and upgrades on your own.
In the living room, try updating a fireplace mantel with flowers and small shelf planters. Re-upholstering furniture or swapping curtains for shades is also a cost-effective way to rejuvenate any living space. Even the most neglected furniture-piece can be given a total makeover. Changing the knobs and drawer handles alone can bring a great transformation to any bedroom.
Wall hangings and wallpapers can also be put in place of painting for an interesting touch. And trying out some removable wallpaper on a wall panel or two can introduce an interesting focal point in any room, be it classic or modern.
Even the simplest of DIY projects on a budget can help introduce life and light into any room. Whether it’s rearranging furniture or adding a few well-selected pieces, mastering small tasks can help reduce time, costs, and bring in a touch of character to the home. So why wait? Get creating and see the results – you’ll be surprised.