14 Easy Ways To Update Your Home Without Completely Remodeling

Not everyone can afford the time and mess of a complete home remodel. There are several ways you can upgrade your home for a modern feel without completely tearing out what is already there.

*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read our full privacy policy.

*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read our full privacy policy.

#1 Paint

Some people might consider home painting projects as a remodel, but we just look at it as an upgrade. From painting beat-up baseboards white to adding a completely new wall color, paint is a great way to transform your space.

Paint can even be used on unexpected surfaces such as counters or tiles. Just note that painting these surfaces can be a great temporary solution until you can completely update them.

#2 Change Lighting

You don’t have to change your light fixtures completely. You can also consider just changing your light bulbs. You won’t believe how updating your yellowish bulbs can brighten your space.

However, if you are so inclined to change a fixture consider getting rid of those ‘b**b’ lights first. Trust me, you will notice a huge difference.

#3 Take Risks With New Hardware

Modern hardware handles and knobs can elevate your cabinetry. From larger gold handles to matte black, there are so many different hardware styles.

Mix and Match

We used to think that all hardware needs to match in all rooms, but now realize that each room can have its own aesthetic.

Don’t be scared to take risks with hardware, especially if you find pulls or knobs that work the drilled holes that are already there. You can even spray paint cabinet pulls and knobs like we did in our laundry room.

#4 Add Plants

Give your space a fresh feel and look by adding some greenery to your indoor and outdoor space. We love these DIY flower pot ideas that are a budget-friendly way to add to your home decor.

#5 Change Your Throw Pillows

If you are reading this, use this as a sign that you can buy those new and fluffier pillows you have had your eye on. Add a pop of color to your space with a fun pattern or texture.

#6 Get Rid Of Carpet Where It Doesn’t Belong

If your home is like ours, you may have carpet in the bathrooms. Yuck!

Luckily you should be able to easily remove the carpet since it is a small space. We have been super happy with the budget peel-and-stick flooring we added to our cheap basement bathroom remodel.

And if you can’t remove the carpet just yet, at least clean it well. You can use a carpet steamer yourself.

#7 Change Window Treatments

Add new drapes and blinds or remove them completely. You could also change the height which you hang your curtains from. Consider adding hardware a lot higher than you are used to.

#8 Caulk Before Painting

If you are considering painting trim, woodwork, or walls, consider getting a seamless look by using paintable caulk before painting. This is such a small thing that makes a huge impact.

#9 Change Out Outlets and Switch Plates

If your house was built in the 80s and 90s, chances are that you have almond-colored outlet covers. Getting rid of the cream-colored switches and covers can make a difference in a room without costing too much.

#10 Add To Your Walls

Neutral-painted walls can still feel modern and fresh by adding unique artwork or family photos. You can even take your own black-and-white photos and display them in matching frames for a more polished look.

And if family photos aren’t your thing, you can even design the actual wall or add a colorful painting.

#11 Thrifty Furniture Makeovers

You can work with what you already have. Shop flea markets or pick up needed pieces on Facebook Marketplace for your furniture flips. Mixing old with new not only is good for the environment but also a great way to get unique home decor.

#12 Declutter

Create drop-off zones, clean out the junk drawer and slowly remove items in your home. Take time each month to go through your house and decide if you can part with something.

Do you need those papers from 2 months ago? If you have a family, consider creating DIY memory boxes to help have a place for all the paper clutter.

#13 Change Our Your Floor Vents

If you have wood floors and white vents, you may want to consider adding a vent that will match your flooring. There are a lot of different floor vent covers that aren’t just white.

#14 Stop Putting Off Small Repairs and Maintenance

Each of these jobs doesn’t have to take hours.

• Create a rotating schedule for deep cleaning and stick to it.
• Add new bathroom caulk where needed and vacuum out those vents.
• Even wiping down your walls can add a fresh feel to your bedroom or bathroom.
• Touch-up small paint jobs. We love using this easy paint touch-up pen.

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