Cool home upgrades can increase resale value, but they don’t always have to break the bank. From LED strip lights that you can control with your phone to a cup holder that tucks over the armrest of a couch, these simple additions add up.
We asked design and renovation experts for their top cheap upgrades.
1. Shaker-Style Cabinets
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your bathroom, organize your living room or renovate your kitchen, it’s important to know which home products will make the biggest impact on your home’s style and functionality. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable ways to make your house feel new again without taking out a loan.
When you want to redo your cabinets, consider Shaker-style options. This minimalist design is timeless and a popular choice for homeowners. They can be painted or stained in a variety of colors and pair well with rustic shelving. If you’re on a tight budget, choose MDF or thermofoil cabinets over solid wood to save money. CabinetCorp specializes in Shaker-style cabinets for shipment as RTA (ready-to-assemble) units so you can save on installation costs.
2. Pale Blue Bathrooms
One of the simplest and least expensive upgrades to make is painting a bathroom. A fresh coat of blue wall paint instantly creates a new aesthetic for your space. It also provides a great blank canvas for adding accessories and other design elements.
A simple robin’s egg shade of blue on walls, cabinets and the base of this bathtub from designer Nicola Harding gives this bathroom a romantic feel. She paired the color with reclaimed wood floors, beveled mirrors and antique art to complete the look.
Large floor tiles in varying shades of blue turn this bathroom from Fantastic Frank into a soothing retreat. The shimmering tile resembles the rays of sun hitting ocean water and contrasts beautifully with white and wood tones in the room.
5. Artwork
Artwork is another way to make your home feel more unique. The style of your home says a lot about you, so you want it to reflect your personality and taste. For example, hanging a large minimal abstract painting above your fireplace is a great way to add a focal point and keep it within view from every room in the house. Shelves and sideboards are also great options for hanging smaller artwork, postcards, or photos from your latest holiday.