Upgrading your living room doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With a few simple changes, you can give your space a fresh new look. Here are some easy ways to refresh your living room on a budget:
Replace Throw Pillows and Blankets
One of the fastest ways to update the look of your living room is to swap out your throw pillows and blankets. Changing up the colors, patterns, and textures is an inexpensive way to breathe new life into tired furniture.
I like to shop discount home stores like HomeGoods and Marshalls for great deals on pillows and blankets. You can find fun seasonal prints and fabrics to change up your decor. I also browse sites like Etsy for unique handmade pillow covers to mix into my throw pillow collection.
Update Wall Decor
Your walls offer ample opportunity to showcase your personal style. Replacing outdated wall art and prints can instantly give your living room a modern facelift.
Visit thrift stores and garage sales to find affordable artwork and mirrors. I also shop sites like Society6 and Etsy for original wall art. Look for pieces that reflect your tastes and complement your existing color scheme.
Grouping small prints in eclectic gallery wall displays is an on-trend way to fill empty wall space above your sofa or media center. I use Command strips to easily rearrange frames and art prints until I find a layout I love.
Incorporate New Lighting
Lighting can make a huge impact in living rooms, setting the mood and showcasing your decor. Overhead fixtures, lamps, and accent lighting all present opportunities to update your space.
I swapped out an old ceiling fan and added recessed lighting which made the room feel brighter and more modern. For lamps, check thrift stores and garage sales for unique bases to pair with new lampshades. I also love using battery-operated string lights behind furniture and above bookshelves to create a cozy glow.
Rearrange Furniture
Sometimes a simple furniture shuffle can give you a fresh perspective. Reconfiguring the layout of your seating, media components, and other living room staples forces you to reconsider how you use the space.
I like to change up the arrangement a few times a year to find the best flow. Don’t overlook unused corners – these areas present the chance to carve out defined spaces like a reading nook with a comfy chair.
Declutter and Clean
Before you make any decorative changes, it’s important to declutter your living room to pare down visual clutter. Cleaning surfaces, organizing media collections, and removing unnecessary items clears the way for your new updates.
I try to follow the “one in, one out” rule by donating, selling, or repurposing something old for each new decorative item I purchase. Maintaining this balance keeps your living room neat and curated.
Add Greenery
Bringing the outdoors inside is an easy way to add life to your living room. Houseplants are an affordable option to incorporate natural elements and purify the air.
I mix and match low maintenance potted plants like pothos, philodendrons, and succulents in my space. You can also liven up shelves and tabletops with inexpensive small potted herbs. Their scent is an added sensory bonus.
Hanging air plants in macrame or wire holders add greenery without taking up floor space. Don’t forget to water and care for your new plants!
Refresh Paint or Wallpaper
Probably the biggest change you can make in a living room redesign is altering the wall color or wall coverings. While more labor intensive, this can entirely transform the feel of the space.
If your walls need a pick-me-up, invest in a fresh coat of neutral paint in a modern matte, eggshell, or satin sheen. For a bolder change, apply an accent color on one wall to create a focal point.
Another option is hanging removable wallpaper or peel-and-stick wallpaper tiles. These allow you to inexpensively change up your backdrop. Both home improvement stores and sites like Spoonflower have great options.
Update Flooring
Replacing worn carpeting or outdated vinyl flooring can modernize your living room. But if a full flooring replacement isn’t in your budget, consider refreshing a rug.
An area rug anchors a seating area and adds dimension with color, pattern, and texture. Overstock, RugsUSA, and Wayfair all offer a wide range of affordably priced rugs. You can find options to fit any style.
I also love to use a large jute rug as wall art behind my sofa. This natural fiber adds an organic element and warmth to the room.
Add Storage Ottomans
Lack of storage space is a common living room dilemma. An easy fix is to swap out a standard coffee table for storage ottomans.
These upholstered pieces provide discreet storage for everything from board games and puzzles to throws and magazines. Look for options with removable tops and internal trays.
Foldable ottomans are great for creating flexible seating arrangements. I use them to add extra seats when entertaining. Then tuck them out of the way when not in use.
Update Accessories
Accessories bring all the elements of your living room together into a cohesive style. Switch out objects like vases, trays, baskets, and table lamps to refresh your look.
Take inspiration from current home trends you see in stores and magazines. Adding a few new metallic, natural wood, or woven accessories can make your space feel updated.
Don’t overlook small touches like pretty glassware for flowers or new candlesticks. These finishing touches make a difference.
With a little creativity and effort, you can give your living room a stylish facelift without spending a fortune. Use these easy update ideas to create a space you’ll enjoy relaxing in.