There have been so many times where I’ve been itching for a change but wasn’t sure how to go about it or what my budget would allow. Can I afford to knock that entire wall down? Okay, maybe that’s a bit extreme, but you know what I mean.
If your living room is in need of a refresh but you don’t have the budget for a complete makeover, don’t despair! There are plenty of ways to give your space a fresh look without breaking the bank.
Here are 15 practical ways to upgrade your living room without breaking the bank. Many of these ideas can apply to a bedroom, office, or kitchen as well!
1. Update your pillows and throws
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to upgrade your living room is to switch out your old pillows and throws for new ones. Play around with different textures and colors to see what looks best in your space. You may be surprised at how much of a difference this small change can make! You can also purchase covers for your existing pillows. These are nice because they can easily be slipped off and thrown into the wash. I like to have a few different colored throws for each season. In the fall, I take out my orangey/rust colored throw blankets and pillows. Then when spring rolls around, I like to brighten up the space with sage green and pink.
2. Paint an accent wall
If you’re looking for a bigger project to take on, painting an accent wall is a great way to add some personality to your living room without spending a fortune. Choose a bold color or pattern that will really pop against the rest of your walls, and get to work! I recommend hiring a professional painter if you’re not confident in your own painting skills. We added a bright accent wall in our home office. The cost of the paint wasn’t too expensive because we only needed a small amount. Grab some samples and get creative.
3. Bring in some greenery
Another easy way to liven up your living room is to add some greenery. Plants not only look beautiful, but they also help purify the air in your home. If you don’t have a green thumb, no worries – there are plenty of low-maintenance options out there, like succulents and cacti. If you have pets at home, be sure to opt for non-toxic options. You can also get fake plants (which are maintenance free!). However, I do recommend giving them a good dusting or vacuum on a regular basis.
4. Swap out your hardware
If your living room furniture is looking a little dated, swapping out the hardware is a quick and easy way to give it a fresh new look. Just unscrew the old pulls and knobs and replace them with new ones that match the style you’re going for. This is also a great opportunity to experiment with different metals or finishes! I love playing with brightly colored hardware. There are many options to choose from and you can even swap them out a few times a year to keep things interesting!
5. Invest in some new art
Art can really tie a room together and make it feel like home. If you don’t have any art on display in your living room, now’s the perfect time to invest in some pieces that speak to you. Not sure where to start? Check out local flea markets or online retailers like Society6 or Etsy for affordable art options. You can also find some great pieces at yard sales, estate sales, and consignment stores.
6. Change up your window treatments
Window treatments are another easy way to add some personality to your space. If you don’t have any curtains or blinds, consider adding some to give your living room a finished look. And if you already have window treatments, think about switching them out for something new. Just a few small changes can make a big difference! I like switching up the curtains based on the season. In the winter, we hang dark maroon curtains which compliment my holiday decor. In the warmer months, its an easy switch to a bright look.
7. Update your coffee table
Your coffee table is one of the most important pieces of furniture in your living room, so it’s important to make sure it reflects your personal style. If you’re tired of your old coffee table, consider giving it a makeover with a fresh coat of paint or some new hardware. Or, if you’re feeling really ambitious, you could even build your own coffee table or refinish an antique table. Make sure your coffee table isn’t too cluttered. Opt for one that has ample storage, and don’t forget to use the coasters!
8. Re-arrange your furniture
Sometimes the best way to upgrade your living room is to simply rearrange your furniture. This is a great way to change things up without having to spend any money. Just play around with different layouts until you find something that feels right. And don’t be afraid to get creative – you might be surprised at what works.
9. Add some new lighting
Proper lighting is essential for any room, but it’s especially important in the living room. If your space is feeling a little dull, try adding some new lamps or light fixtures. This is a great way to brighten things up and create a more inviting atmosphere. You can also experiment with different lightbulbs. Sometimes leveling up a room is as easy as screwing in a brighter bulb. A new lampshade on a table lamp can also add quite a bit.
10. Shop secondhand
If you’re on a tight budget, shopping secondhand is a great way to find affordable furniture and decor for your living room. Check out local thrift stores, yard sales, and online marketplaces like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for deals on gently used items. We have gotten lucky and found many amazing pieces on Facebook. When people are moving, they typically will give you a great deal.
11. Do a DIY project
If you’re feeling crafty, doing a DIY project is a great way to add some personal flair to your living room. Whether you build a piece of furniture from scratch or simply customize an existing piece, DIY projects are a great way to put your own spin on things. And the best part is, they don’t have to be expensive – you can use things you already have around the house or find affordable materials at your local hardware store.
12. Get organized
A nice way to upgrade your living space is to simply get it organized. This doesn’t have to be a huge project – just take some time to declutter and get rid of any unwanted items. Then, find creative ways to store the things you need, like using baskets or bins to tuck away items that don’t belong out in the open. A little bit of organization can go a long way. For example, we like to store our blankets in a cute basket next to the fireplace.
13. Make it cozy
Your living room should be a place where you can relax and unwind, so make sure it feels cozy and comfortable. Add some throw blankets and pillows to make it feel more inviting, and consider adding a rug to help define the space. You could even add a portable fireplace or a small electric heater to make it extra cozy in the colder months. When the warmer months come around, a vase of fresh flowers adds a lot.
14. Add some personal touches
Finally, don’t forget to add some personal touches to your living room. This could be anything from photos and artwork to mementos and keepsakes. Just make sure it reflects your style and personality, and you’ll love spending time in your new living room!
15. Work with what you have
Furniture can be very expensive when you are trying to buy everything new. A more cost-effective way to change up the look of your furniture would be by adding slipcovers. Personally, I like to use sheets as slipcovers because they are less expensive and can easily be switched out when I want a new look. I also like to wash them once a week to keep them fresh.
Updating your living room doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming – sometimes, all it takes are a few small changes to really make a big impact. I hope these five tips have inspired you to start planning your own living room refresh! Let me know in the comments what steps you’ve taken to freshen up your space on a budget.