The Best Tips for Home Improvement on a Budget | New York City

Love the look of luxury but don’t have a matching bank account? Check out these tips for home improvement on a budget!

Make Easy Changes for Big Impact

There’s nothing better than small changes that upgrade the whole room! Start by decluttering. Stacks of papers, clothing piles, knick knacks, and overflowing closets are anything but luxurious. Get rid of anything you don’t love or need, then find a home for everything else.

Next, take a look at your switch plates and outlet covers. Are they cheap plastic, or worse, broken? Replacing them is easy and inexpensive. Consider replacing boring door knobs with reclaimed hardware. These one-of-a-kind pieces add charm and character. Check out Salvo for NYC resources. Can’t find what you want locally? You’ll find even more options online.

Image Source: Flickr/Graham Hellewell

Choose the Right Color Palette

Selecting the right colors is an important consideration when planning home improvement on a budget. When faced with a wall of paint chips, it’s tempting to go crazy! The best way to create a lush atmosphere is to start with neutrals. White and gray are excellent paint choices, and both are available in a wide range of cool and warm shades.

Select neutral furniture, as well. Then choose an accent color or two for your accessories. Your room will look put together and colorful, not overwhelming.

Invest in the Best You Can Afford

When you’re decorating on a budget, you need to prioritize expenses. Decide what is really important to you and splurge on that. Try sewing designer fabrics into gorgeous pillows, covering a wall with graphic wallpaper, or using expensive tile as an striking accent.

These luxurious items will create a beautiful focal point in your room. Fill the rest of your space with more affordable items.

Image Source: Flickr/HORIZON

Add Luxe Details

Certain changes instantly transform a space, and they needn’t be expensive! Is the trim in your rooms skimpy or nonexistent? Upgrade it! Beautiful crown molding and substantial baseboards are a luxurious detail.

Off the rack pillows usually come with uncomfortable poly filling. Replace it with a down insert for a plush feel that you can sink into.

Are your light fixtures outdated? Replace them with a newer model.

Curtains have a way of pulling together a room. Make sure to hang them near the ceiling instead of even with your window frame. Your ceilings will immediately seem higher. Similarly, if your windows are narrow, hang your curtains a little wider than the frame.

Don’t Forget Your Kitchen and Bathroom

If you’re on a budget, a full kitchen or bathroom makeover may not be possible, but that doesn’t mean you can’t improve what you have.

First things first: give the room a deep clean. It’s amazing what a little elbow grease can accomplish!

Is your grout looking dingy? Cover up those dark, stained lines. We recommend Grout Renew. It takes a little patience to apply but the results are work it.

Cabinets can be refreshed with paint. Make sure to put in your prep time (sanding, priming, etc.), or your hard work may not last.

Considering the size of most New York kitchens, a new backsplash is an affordable update!

Replace worn towel bars, toilet paper holders, and other fixtures. Then invest in new accessories, like crisp white towels or a new shower curtain.