10 affordable decor items to elevate your home

home decor items

Imagine it’s the weekend, and you’re chilling in your living room. You feel like your space needs a new look but don’t want to spend a lot. I felt the same way last year. I wanted to make our home look stylish without spending a lot. So, I started looking for affordable decor items that could make a big difference.

I found out that with just ten simple decor ideas, I could change our home’s look in three days. Mixing materials like linen, wood, and leather made our space look better. Adding wall sconces and dimmable lights made it feel fancy and unique.

I set out to find budget-friendly decorations that would really stand out. I learned that layering rugs could make rooms look bigger and more interesting. Just steaming our curtains and bedding made them look tailored and fancy.

Are you curious about my discoveries? Let’s explore affordable decor items and see how to make your home look great without spending a lot. i’ll share trendy decor ideas that refresh and personalize your space without breaking the bank.

Key Takeaways

  • Quick home transformations can be achieved in as little as three days with ten simple decor ideas.
  • Mixing materials like linen, wood, and leather creates an elevated, visually appealing space.
  • Wall sconces and dimmable lights can instantly make a room look luxurious and custom-designed.
  • Layering rugs adds visual interest and makes rooms feel larger.
  • Steaming curtains and bedding gives fabrics a tailored, opulent appearance.

Update Old Light Fixtures

pendant lights home decor items

Updating your home’s lighting can change its look and save money. In recent years, stylish home accessories have become popular, especially modern pendant lights. These lights can greatly improve your home’s ambiance. Let’s look at how modern lighting can change your living space.

Modern Pendant Lighting Trends

  • Metallic finishes and industrial designs
  • Minimalist and geometric shapes
  • Natural material blends like wood and glass

Modern pendant lighting trends are changing interior decor with their sleek designs. They feature metallic finishes, industrial styles, minimalist shapes, and natural materials like wood and glass. These lights are great as stylish home accessories. They add warmth to any space.

There are over 30 upcycling ideas for vintage light fixtures, like a unique find in Charlotte, NC. You can turn an old diving helmet into a special light fixture. Or, take a 1980s brass pendant light and turn it into a lantern for firefly lights. These projects show how creative you can be with updates.

Impact of New Lighting on Home Ambiance

New lighting can completely change a room’s feel. It improves the look and offers practical benefits. Bloggers have shared more than 20 creative hacks for those on a budget or renting.

DIY fans and influencers show how to update lamps without spending a lot. You can change lampshades or completely redo old fixtures. For example, an old diving helmet can become a unique light fixture, or a brass pendant can turn into a lantern for firefly lights. These projects mix style with function.

The following table highlights different DIY projects and approaches:

Project Description Budget-Friendly Tips
Antique Diving Helmet Vintage light fixture turned into a unique centerpiece. Use thrift store finds and metallic spray paint.
Brass Pendant Lantern 1980s brass light fixture upcycled into a lantern for firefly lights. Source affordable glass inserts and LED lights.
Lampshade Updates Renovate old lampshades with fabric or paint. Choose budget-friendly fabrics or repurpose old clothes.

These examples show that updating lighting can breathe new life into a home. It adds stylish accessories that improve the ambiance. Whether you’re on a budget or want to splurge, new lighting can make a big difference.

Use Neutral Colors

neutral colors for home decor items and interior design

Neutral colors in home decor bring calm and timeless elegance. They are getting more popular, shaping how we choose colors and design. Pinterest talks about neutral decor about 5970 times, showing its wide appeal.

Popular Neutral Shades

Warm neutrals are the top choice, making up 80% of the options. Soft grays, beiges, and whites are favorites for their versatility. These colors are key in modern home decor for their flexibility and style.

Benefits of Neutral Tones in Home Decor

Neutral colors can totally change a room’s overall look. They make updating easy, letting you quickly switch up decorations like artwork and pillows. This keeps up with the latest in home design trends.

Neutral colors also make moving from one room to another smoother. They help avoid color clashes. Starting with neutrals leads to designs that last, creating a peaceful and flexible space.

Create Fake Built-Ins

fake build ins for home decor items

Transforming your home with elegant finishes doesn’t have to be expensive. Creating fake built-ins is a great DIY project. It can make your space look like it has custom home furnishings without the high cost. By using common items, you can achieve the look of artisan home decor easily.

Start by buying bookshelves. Instead of new ones from IKEA, Walmart, or Target, try thrift stores. We found great bookshelves for just $100 at a local thrift store. Adding wallpaper to the shelves can make them look even better. We got affordable wallpaper from Amazon Warehouse during a sale, paying only $12 to $15 per roll.

To make it look like built-ins, add upper cabinets around the shelves. You can use prefab cabinets from Lowe’s, Home Depot, Menards, or IKEA. This is cheaper than custom carpentry. You’ll need a quality drill, level, stud finder, and nail gun for this project. Cabinets are easier to install than upper units, making it a practical DIY project.

To finish, consider adding a wood counter or butcher block wood on top of your cabinets. This adds a custom touch. Adding stylish knobs or pulls can also add contrast and detail. Our total project cost was $139, not including books and decor.

By using secondhand items and budget-friendly materials, you can make beautiful, practical built-in shelving. This adds a touch of artisan home decor to your space.

Item Cost Source
Bookshelves $100 Thrift Store
Wallpaper $12-$15 per roll Amazon
Upper Cabinets Varies Lowes, Home Depot, Menards, IKEA
Knobs/Pulls $20 (pair of brass) Home Goods

This approach lets you get a high-end look on a budget. The joy of making your home look elegant and organized is rewarding. By doing this, you’re not just decorating your home. You’re also being mindful and cost-efficient in your decorating choices.

Upgrade Your Hardware

Changing old hardware is a simple way to add luxury to your home. Swapping out old pulls, knobs, and handles with new designs can make cabinets and doors look stylish. Think of new hardware as the jewelry of your home, adding elegance that shows off your style.

luxury home decorations

Updating your hardware not only makes your home look better but also works better. Schlage offers many options, like privacy, passage, and dummy forms, to fit your door style and color. These small changes can make your home feel new and fancy.

Many of us don’t realize how important updating hardware is. It’s a quick way to make your home look stylish. Whether you like modern or vintage styles, the right hardware is the perfect finish. Lowe’s has pre-drilled options and many materials for both inside and outside your home.

Here’s a look at different door hardware options:

Property Type Material Finishes
Interior Knobs & Handles Wood, MDF, Composite Semi-gloss, High-quality Paint
Exterior Locks & Handles Fiberglass, Steel, Aluminum Weather-resistant, Low-maintenance

Upgrading to modern hardware is key to making your home look better and work better. With many finishes and styles, you can add your personal touch. Choosing sleek black handles or shiny chrome knobs can make a big difference in your home’s look.

Freshen Up Your Landscaping

Making our home’s exterior look better can change everything. Using affordable home accents and smart landscaping helps a lot. With cost-effective perennials and fresh mulching, we can make our homes stand out.

Cost-Effective Perennials

Choosing cost-effective perennials is a great way to add color and life to our gardens. Plants like daylilies, coneflowers, and hostas are tough and easy to care for. They’re perfect for creating beautiful gardens with little work.

Picking plants that do well in our area means they’ll grow strong and healthy. This way, we don’t have to spend a lot of time taking care of them.

Mulching Tips for a Fresh Look

Mulching keeps our yards looking neat and healthy. Fresh mulch keeps the soil moist and cool. It also makes our garden beds look neat.

For the best look, put a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch down. Shredded bark or compost works great. Regular mulching keeps weeds away and makes our landscaping look better.

Install a Tile Backsplash

Adding a tile backsplash is a smart way to improve your home on a budget. It’s both useful and stylish, making your kitchen look better without spending a lot. With some effort, you can make your kitchen look like it was done by professionals.

Choosing Affordable Tile Options

Choosing the right tiles is key for kitchen upgrades. Subway tiles are a great choice because they’re affordable and always in style. They come in many colors and finishes to match your taste.

DIY Tile Installation Guide

Starting a DIY tile project might seem hard, but with the right guide, you can do it yourself. Here are the main steps for a smooth installation:

  1. Preparation: Clean and level the wall. Make sure to leave a 1/8-inch gap between backer board panels.
  2. Adhesive Application: Use thinset mortar to stick the tiles to the wall. It works for about 4 hours. For natural stone, use a 1/4-inch x 1/4-inch trowel.
  3. Tile Placement: Lay tiles evenly, leaving a 1/8-inch gap where they meet cabinets and countertops.
  4. Grouting: Mix grout and use it within two hours of mixing. Spread it diagonally with a rubber float. Grout sets in about 3 hours, and it takes 24 hours to three days to fully dry.
  5. Sealant and Caulking: Wait for the grout sealer to dry before adding latex caulk between the backsplash and countertop.

Always add 10 percent more tile to cover small gaps or replace broken pieces. With these steps, you can easily improve your kitchen’s look with DIY projects.

Materials Needed Approximate Cost
Subway Tiles $1 – $5 per sq. ft.
Thinset Mortar $10 – $20 per bag
Grout $10 – $15 per bag
Notched Trowel $5 – $10
Backer Board $10 – $15 per sheet
Grout Float $5 – $10
Latex Caulk $5 – $8 per tube

Incorporate Wall Molding

wall molding home decor items

Adding wall molding to your home is a big change that can make a big impact. It adds texture, depth, and visual interest to any room. This update is a great way to make your home look better.

Types of Molding and Their Effects

Wall molding comes in different materials like polyurethane, MDF, and wood. Polyurethane is the most common type found in stores. Each molding type changes how a room looks:

  • Baseboard: It goes where the wall meets the floor, protecting walls and finishing the look.
  • Crown Molding: At the top of walls, it adds elegance and makes ceilings seem taller.
  • Casing: It goes around doorways and windows, highlighting these features.

Popular molding designs include Chair Rail, Wainscoting, Shiplap, Beadboard, Board and Batten, and Picture Frame. Shiplap gives a rustic, nautical feel, perfect for farmhouse or coastal styles. Beadboard works well with cottage and traditional looks. Mixing styles, like Board and Batten with beadboard, creates unique designs.

DIY Molding Installation Tips

Installing wall molding is a rewarding DIY project. It adds a personal touch to your space. Here are some tips to start:

  1. Measure Accurately: Measure your walls well to know how much molding you need.
  2. Choose the Right Tools: You’ll need a miter saw, nail gun, level, tape measure, and adhesive.
  3. Prep the Walls: Clean the walls and fix any damage before you start.
  4. Install with Precision: Use a level for straight molding, and a miter saw for corners.
  5. Finish and Paint: Fill gaps with caulk, sand, and paint to match your decor.

With these tips, you can easily add stylish molding to your home. Whether you choose simple chair rails or grand crown molding, these updates will make your home look better.

Focus on the Entryway

home decor items - entryway design

Making your entryway inviting is key to setting the right mood for your home. A great entryway makeover not only grabs attention but also sets the design theme for your home. We’ll share some top home decor items and design tips to make your entryway stand out and leave a lasting first impression.

Essential Entryway Decor Items

Choosing the right decor for your entryway can turn it into a beautiful and useful space. Here are 25 amazing ideas for making your entryway look stunning:

  1. Bold Area Rugs: A vibrant area rug can instantly brighten up your entryway.
  2. Statement Artwork: A bold piece of art can be the centerpiece, setting the design tone.
  3. Strategic Lighting: Pendant lights or sconces can create a warm welcome.
  4. Antique Pieces: Adding antique decorations brings style and a touch of history.
  5. Natural Materials: Wooden furniture and wicker baskets add warmth and a cozy feel.

Also, consider thrift stores for unique and sustainable decor items for your entryway makeover.

Creating a Welcoming First Impression

Your entryway is the first glimpse into your home, so make it welcoming. Here are some expert tips:

  • Checkered Flooring: This choice is both elegant and eye-catching.
  • Using Benches: A bench adds both style and practicality.
  • Warm Color Palette: Soft whites and earthy tones create a cozy feel.
  • Baskets for Storage: Baskets under a console table add style and function.
  • Statement Wallpaper: Bold wallpaper can significantly enhance your entryway.

By blending style and function, you can create an entryway that reflects your personality and is practical. Think about how a large mirror can make the space look bigger or how plants can bring nature inside, making your entryway more appealing.

Here’s a closer look at key elements for your entryway based on our examples:

Decor Element Instances Highlighted
Storage Solutions 9
Dual-Function Furniture 4
Mirrors 3
Greenery/Artwork 3
Wallpaper/Geometric Patterns 2
Colorful Accents 2
Repurposed Furniture 2
Area Rugs 2
Gallery Wall 1
Mix of Lighting Fixtures 1

Using these tips and ideas, you can create an entryway that’s both stylish and welcoming. It will set the perfect tone for the rest of your home.

Go Big With Art – artworks are the best home decor items

wall artworks are the best home decor items

Adding large-scale artwork to your home makes a bold statement and shows off your style. It’s a budget-friendly way to change the look and feel of a room. Let’s look at how to find affordable big pieces and hang them right.

Finding Inexpensive Statement Pieces

There are many ways to find unique home decorations without spending a lot:

  • Thrifting: Thrift stores are full of one-of-a-kind art pieces. Finding these adds a special touch to your decor.
  • DIY Projects: Get creative and make your own large artwork. Use canvases and paint from craft stores to create something that fits your style.
  • Local Art Markets: Check out markets where new artists sell their work. You can find great art at good prices and support local artists.

Artists like Laurent Prudot, Maike Barbara Maier, Silvia Vassileva, and LABB are making a mark in the art world. Mixing vintage and new art from these artists can make your home look unique and interesting.

Tips for Hanging Large Art

Here are some tips to make large artwork stand out and fit well in your home:

  1. Eye Level Placement: Make sure the artwork’s center is at eye level. This makes it more appealing and keeps the room balanced.
  2. Anchor with Furniture: Place your big piece above furniture like a sofa or bed. It becomes a focal point and connects the room’s elements.
  3. Gallery Walls: Mix different art sizes and styles on a gallery wall. This keeps the eye moving and keeps the room interesting.
  4. Vary Orientation: Use both horizontal and vertical pieces to avoid a boring look.
  5. 3-Dimensional Elements: Add sculptural pieces or mirrors for depth and interest. Using multiple mirrors can make a room feel bigger and more dynamic.

Using a mix of large artwork, framed TV art, and decor like fake plants can make rooms look modern and put together. For example, placing art in different rooms can create interesting and balanced spaces. Try using one big piece, a group of smaller ones, or different textures to keep your walls lively and attractive.

Mix Textures for a Luxurious Look

Mixing different textures in home decor adds depth and interest. It makes your space look luxurious and curated. With thousands of styles for rugs and carpeting, adding other textured pieces is key to creativity.

Many people feel nervous about mixing patterns and textures in their homes. But, it’s a rich design avenue to explore. Mixing patterns with different scales is a top trend. For example, pairing a delicate floral with a bold leaf print creates a stunning visual effect.

To make your home feel plush, try velvet cushions in matching tones with patterned ones. Handmade Indian silk bed throws add luxury to bedrooms. Mixing textures in curtains and rugs creates an intriguing contrast that catches the eye.

  1. Handmade Indian silk bed throws for a touch of luxury.
  2. Velvet cushions in matching tones with patterned cushions.
  3. Natural wood elements juxtaposed with gleaming metal accents.

According to 80% of interior decorators, mixing textures and patterns in each room layer harmonizes the design. Adding strong metal and glass textures in decor items like vases or candlesticks brings contrasts. Watching how natural light affects textures during the day is key to a balanced room.

Textured Home Accent Recommended Texture Impact
Cushions Velvet Enhances luxury feel
Bed Throws Indian Silk Elegant bedroom accents
Decor Items Metal and Glass Eye-catching contrasts

Don’t hesitate to experiment with mixing patterns and textures. Test fabrics and paints before big purchases to ensure they fit well. For more texture ideas, call Flooring America at (855) 808-9858. Watching how textures interact with light will help create a balanced space.

Using a mix of textures, from plush decor to shiny metal, will boost your home’s look. It will show off the latest interior design trends.

Conclusion for home decor items that elevate your house

Using these budget-friendly home decor tips can quickly improve your living areas. Lighting like chandeliers, pendant lights, and sculptural floor lamps are key. They light up your space and add elegance, making them essential for home decor.

Textiles such as plush rugs and elegant drapes make your home feel cozy and sophisticated. Handmade decor pieces add a unique touch, helping small businesses and making your home stand out. Adding plants like succulents, fiddle leaf figs, and monstera boosts your home’s look and health.

Gallery walls are also in trend, letting you show off your art, photos, and prints. Today, there’s a big push for sustainable, eco-friendly decor made by hand. These items show off quality craftsmanship and a personal touch that big brands can’t offer. By using these tips, your home will become a stylish, inviting place that shows off your unique style and values.

FAQ

What are some affordable home decor items to elevate my living space?

You can find trendy decor items like unique decorations and stylish accessories. Easy DIY projects can also make a big difference without costing a lot.

What are the current trends in modern pendant lighting?

Modern pendant lights now focus on simple designs, combining materials like metal and wood. They also include statement pieces that become the room’s highlight, adding style and transforming the space.

How can new lighting impact the ambiance of my home?

New lighting can change a room’s feel, from cozy to bright and lively. The right lights improve both looks and function, making your home more inviting.

What are the popular neutral shades for home decor?

Soft grays, beiges, and whites are top choices for neutral tones. They create a calm base that lets other decor stand out, fitting well with modern styles.

What are the benefits of using neutral tones in home decor?

Neutral tones are timeless, versatile, and easy to update with accent colors. This makes them great for creating sophisticated, welcoming spaces with ease.

How can I create fake built-ins with common bookcases?

To look like custom built-ins, use bookcases in smart ways. Stack them, add trim, or molding for a bespoke look that adds a personal touch to your space.

What are some ways to upgrade my home hardware?

Swapping out old knobs, pulls, and handles for new, stylish ones can refresh your space. This simple change can make your home look more sophisticated and luxurious.

How can I enhance my landscaping affordably?

Use affordable perennials and mulch to boost your garden’s look. These easy steps can make your yard look great all year without spending a lot.

What are some affordable tile options for a kitchen backsplash?

For a kitchen backsplash, consider classic subway tiles or easy-to-use peel-and-stick options. These budget-friendly choices can give your kitchen a high-end feel without the high cost.

How can I install a tile backsplash myself?

Installing a tile backsplash yourself is doable with the right steps. Prepare the area well, measure carefully, and use spacers and adhesive correctly for a professional finish.

What are the different types of wall molding and their effects?

Wall moldings come in types like chair rails, picture frames, wainscoting, and crown molding. Each adds unique architectural interest and can elevate your room’s look.

What are some DIY tips for installing wall molding?

For DIY molding installation, measure walls right, use a level for alignment, and apply adhesive and nails correctly. Painting the molding first can also save time.

What are the essential decor items for an inviting entryway?

Key items for an inviting entryway include bold rugs, statement art, and strategic lighting. These elements create a warm welcome and set the design tone for your home.

How can I create a welcoming first impression with my entryway?

Make your entryway inviting with cohesive style, good lighting, and personal touches. Unique decorations that reflect your taste will leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Where can I find inexpensive statement art pieces?

Affordable statement art can be found through thrift stores, DIY projects, and local art markets. These places offer unique and eclectic pieces perfect for trendy decor.

What are some tips for hanging large art effectively?

Hang large art pieces right by centering them at eye level, using strong wall anchors, and considering their size and balance with room furnishings.

How can mixing textures enhance my home decor?

Combining textures like silk, velvet, wood, and metal adds depth and interest. This mix creates a luxurious, curated look that matches modern design trends.

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About Me

Denisa Voicu

I am Denisa Georgiana Voicu and I run DGV Architecture. I love creating new things, my dream is to build an animal sanctuary.

Have a project and want my help?

I offer custom made 2D, 3D, renders and virtual interior design & architecture services for private clients or businesses. Get in touch and let’s talk about your project. 

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