RRefreshing your home doesn't have to involve grand design-scale renovations that always go over time and budget, as expected. Small, thoughtful changes can refine your design and change the feel of your room. Whether it's adding a table lamp or replacing a light switch, these simple updates from a professional can breathe new life into a tired space without breaking the bank.
Refresh your entrance
Never underestimate the impact that paint can have on your home's curb appeal. Changing the color of your front door is one of the easiest ways to freshen up your home and create a friendly welcome every time you come home. “I always work with the existing colors of walls, skylights and trim, but try to go bold for a dramatic makeover,” says James, interior designer on the NSW Central Coast・Treble says. “At the entrance of our house, [used a] It's a gloss to really make a statement. ” He created a Palm Springs-inspired shade of yellow for his paint company, joking, “I named it Umina Springs!”
Update power points and light switches
Replacing tired or yellowed light switches and outlets will instantly refresh and update your home. “I've done this in multiple renovations over the years, and it's like renovating a house on a budget,” Treble says. You can easily and affordably update your existing power points by changing their colors. “With no electrician required and for about $6.50 each, you can obsessively update your entire home on a budget.”Be sure to check the brand and style of your Power Point before purchasing new fitting skins. Please.
layer lighting
Incorporating two or three different light sources into a room is a technique often used by interior designers to create a sense of depth and warmth. “Lamps can instantly change the mood of a room,” says Rutherglen-based interior designer Jenna Densten. She prefers a combination of floor and table lamps “to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere without requiring major changes.” Ambient or overhead lighting provides general illumination, while task lighting, such as bedside lamps or under-cabinet lighting, focuses on specific areas. Use accent lighting, such as wall sconces or floor lamps, to highlight artwork or architectural features and increase the overall appeal of the space.
change the curtains
Replacing blinds with floor-length curtains not only softens the room, but also creates the illusion of height, making ceilings appear higher and windows appear larger. This simple addition improves the overall feel of the space, adding comfort and character. “It's a great way to balance hard surfaces like wood or tile,” says Densten. Choose curtain rods that extend beyond the window frame. This technique not only makes your windows appear larger, but also lets in more light when the curtains are closed. Make sure your curtains are hung at the correct height. To get a luxurious look, the curtains should slightly skim the floor or puddles. Fabrics like linen and soft velvet create a beautiful balance of light and texture while adding visual interest to your space.
Streamline your dining room
“Incorporating a bench seat or chaise lounge is one of my favorite home space-saving solutions,” says Sydney interior designer Jono Fleming. He says that while some may think this addition is impractical, “it can really help with layout in small, difficult-to-place rooms.”
This affordable option will not only transform your dining area, but it will also save you money on chairs, as you only need two or three to supplement your bench. If you're feeling creative, you can further enhance the look with DIY projects and add a backrest made of foam and high-quality fabric to make the sitting experience more integrated. “It's not for everyone, and it's not for every space, but it's a great way to bring the feel of fine dining into your home without spending a lot of money. It’s a good and easy method,” he added.
Don't forget to frame your artwork
“If you've ever bought a print and thought, 'Someday I'm going to frame this,' this is for you,” Fleming says. Many of us leave our prints unframed, or worse, Blu-Tack them to the wall. Express your style by creating an art wall, and enhance your style by framing it. Professional frames can be expensive, but affordable options (like Ikea and Freedom) require minimal effort.
Fleming advises against buying similar frames. Instead, “use wood in different shapes, colors, and shades to give it a lived-in and eclectic feel.”
“It will be worth it in the long run and will extend the life of your artwork.”
