Want to refresh your space but have a small budget and limited time? Creating a fresh and inviting look in your home doesn't have to involve a major renovation or hefty expenses. With some creativity and a few simple changes, you can breathe new life into your living spaces.

We asked a few leading professionals in the industry to help gather ideas and inspirations, along with discussing upcoming trends. Whichever technique you opt for, these experts all agree that your home is your sanctuary, and giving it a fresh look can make it feel more welcoming and rejuvenating.

Add a Splash of Color
Color has the power to transform a space. A bold accent wall in the living room or a pop of color through accessories like throw pillows, blankets or rugs can make a huge impact.

"We're seeing a lot of homeowners have the courage to go bold with paint," says Daniel Carhart, owner of Star Painting and Wallcovering.
Deep burgundy, brown and even green hues are growing in popularity and steering the trend to a much more moody aesthetic.

"Homeowners are not only opting for deeper colors, they are saturating the space with it. The bright whites and neutral grays have made way for rich earth tones and bolder options," adds Carhart.

Another trending option to bring color to a space is painting the ceiling. "You'll often hear people referring to the ceiling as the 'fifth wall' and homeowners are deciding to bring those rich colors to the whole room, including the ceiling. In some instances, they paint just the ceiling as the focal point or statement wall with a darker color," Carhart says.

Wall Updates & Textures
Of course, painting is a quick and easy way to make a big impact in a room, but adding other smaller additions to your walls is also a great way to freshen up your living space. Utilizing artwork or shelving can add visual interest to an otherwise uninspiring room.

Designers suggest you hang a new statement piece of art or create a gallery wall with photos, prints or even framed textiles. Or with the addition of floating shelves, you can easily display books, plants and even curated collections.

Texture, too, can refresh a space—think soft velvet cushions, chunky knit throws or woven baskets for added depth.

"We're definitely seeing more prints and more textures being used in homes," says Isabelle Tarikyan, from Mike's Upholstery. "Not only are they showing up on home accessories, but homeowners are also opting to bring texture to the walls via wallpaper. For a long time, designers moved away from wallpaper, naming it outdated, but it is making a huge comeback."

Tarikyan says that by partnering with brands like Schumacher, the colors, prints and texture options are endless. "There is something for everyone's sense of style and desired design goals. If you can dream it, we can help you achieve it."

Millwork and Moldings
Millwork and moldings have surged in popularity in recent years as homeowners and designers increasingly recognize their ability to elevate a space's aesthetic appeal. These architectural details, including crown molding, baseboards, wainscoting and custom trims, add depth and character to otherwise plain walls and ceilings. They serve as the perfect finishing touch, blending form and function by framing spaces and hiding imperfections. Whether it's the classic elegance of coffered ceilings or the clean lines of modern shiplap, millwork and moldings provide a tailored look that resonates with a wide range of interior styles, from traditional to contemporary.

One reason for their enduring appeal is their versatility. "Millwork and moldings can transform a space without requiring a complete overhaul, making them a cost-effective option for home improvement" shares Pavlo Danylchenko, owner of Signature Woodcraft. "Their customization potential allows homeowners to match these elements to the unique style of their home."

With materials ranging from traditional wood to more affordable, eco-friendly alternatives like MDF, installing this type of upgrade to the home is accessible to most. Additionally, social media and home design shows have further popularized these features, showcasing how simple additions like crown molding or decorative paneling can dramatically enhance a space's sophistication. As a result, these design elements have become go-to choices for creating timeless, high-impact interiors.

Rearrange: Making the Old Feel New Again
Simply rearranging what you already have can also make a noticeable difference. This technique is meant to help you refresh your home affordably by using items you already have. It's simply a matter of reconfiguring your furniture, swapping a few items, and voila—your space feels brand new.

The idea is that you can restyle your space without spending much money, contrary to what many of us believe we need for designing a space—which is to go out and find new pieces. The process involves decluttering, reorganizing and even changing up the purpose of an existing room to breathe new life into it. Sometimes, a new perspective is all you need. Moving your furniture around can transform the look of a room without spending a dime. Experiment with different layouts to create a sense of openness or intimacy, depending on your preference.

Refreshing your home is about finding joy in your space again. Whether it's through rearranging furniture, adding pops of color or even just decluttering your belongings, even the smallest changes can have a huge impact. With these ideas, you can create a home that feels fresh, welcoming and uniquely yours.

Resources
Mike's Upholstery
Cliffside Park, N.J.
(201) 941-3370
MikesCustomUpholstery.com

Signature Woodcraft
Horsham, Pa.
(267) 736-9740
SignatureWCraft.com

Star Painting
& Wallcovering
Collegeville, Pa.
(610) 409-7980
StarPaintingAndWallcovering.com

Published (and copyrighted) in House & Home, Volume 24, Issue 12 (November/December 2024)
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