4 Budget-Friendly Ways to Refresh Your Home
Every home needs a little refresh now and then. It's fun and a great way to reinvigorate your living space. It also doesn't have to cost the earth. Read on.
Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies forecasts a 1.2% increase in renovation and maintenance spending through Q3 this year, pushing it up to around $477 billion. This tells us a lot of people are looking to refresh their homes, and while you may be one of them, and you may be contributing to this large figure, you don't have to actually spend a large figure yourself.
There are budget-friendly ways to make your home a bit more comfortable, a bit more fun, and even a bit more visually impressive. Every little improvement is, indeed, an improvement, and considering the low costs associated with our top picks, they are all very much worth your time.
Making Room for Possibilities with a Detached Garage
Having your garage as a standalone structure comes with some surprising benefits. Beyond just parking your car, a detached garage offers some significant peace of mind. Having your garage set apart from your home means lower insurance rates in many areas, as any garage mishaps stay contained rather than spreading to your living space. Depending on its location, it can be a natural security buffer, keeping unwanted visitors at arm's length from your home.
We love this improvement, however, because it is a cost-effective way to create some incredibly versatile extra space. You can have a hobby workshop that won't drive everyone crazy with noise or a home gym where you can grunt as loud as you need to. A detached garage gives you flexibility without disrupting family life. Plus, car fumes and paint storage smells stay right where they belong – away from your living room.
Add Some Photovoltaic Windows
Not all cutting-edge technology is as cost-efficient as it is worth it, but photovoltaic windows tick these boxes. They essentially turn every sunlit window in your home into a mini power plant without compromising your view.
While doing all of the jobs regular windows do, these marvels also collect solar energy throughout the day, like having invisible solar panels that won't change the street view of your home. They are engineered to capture specific parts of the solar spectrum while letting the light you actually want to see pass through. As a result, the cost efficiencies are ongoing as your energy bills get a little lighter each month. When roof space is at a premium and traditional solar panels aren't an option, photovoltaic windows are a smart alternative, turning your home into a discrete power generator.
Cleverly and Cheaply Transform Your Bathroom
You can give your bathroom a facelift without demolishing your savings by targeting the fixtures you often overlook. Start with the fixtures you interact with daily. That dated chrome faucet can be swapped for something that makes a statement, like a modern matte black tap or warm brushed brass. Most faucet replacements are surprisingly straightforward weekend projects that won't require paid help.
Mirrors are another cost-efficient upgrade. A generously sized round mirror in a bathroom creates the illusion of more space while adding a contemporary touch, making your entire bathroom feel more expansive and luxurious. Add some fresh, plush towels in coordinating colors, and sleek soap dispensers and your bathroom will feel thoughtfully designed while your bank balance stays intact.
Simple Bedroom Refreshes that Work
Much like the bathroom, the smallest tweaks in the bedroom can transform your sleep space, and the obvious star of the show is your bed. New bedding in rich textures or eye-catching patterns changes the entire room's vibe because of the large amount of visual space your bed holds. Invest in one high-quality neutral set and mix it up with seasonal accent pillows and throws so you get endless combinations without breaking the bank.
Nothing grounds a bedroom quite like a well-placed rug. Try sliding one partially under your bed, letting it peek out at the foot and in smaller spaces, use runners along the sides of the bed to avoid overwhelming the room.
If you're working on a bedroom refresh as part of a larger furnishing update, budgeting wisely can help you balance style and comfort without overspending. Knowing the costs associated with essential pieces—such as a bed frame, mattress, and storage—can make planning much easier
Lighting also makes or breaks a bedroom's ambiance. If you're stuck with basic bedside lamps, switch out the shades to create an entirely new mood. Rearranging your existing decor can also make everything feel new again!
Helping You Create a Beautiful, Functional, and Sustainable Living Space
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