In today’s challenging housing market, more than half of homeowners are choosing home improvements over selling their properties, according to a recent survey by U.S. News. This trend is also seen in Canada, according to experts at RONA, homeowners are seeking economical ways to upgrade their living spaces, from kitchens and bathrooms to living areas and bedrooms.
“There are many simple ways you can give your home a more upscale look without breaking the bank,” said Lydia Thammavong, Head of Design, Styles & Trends at RONA. “Start by surveying your home’s interior with a critical eye and identify areas that could use some decor love. Get inspiration from magazines, online images of room settings, and home improvement store displays for decorating ideas.”
Here are Thammavong’s top 8 budget-friendly hacks to spruce up your decor:
1. Replace doorknobs and drawer pulls: Small items can significantly impact a space’s look. Options range from modern farmhouse iron black knobs to sleek, clean lines for a minimalist style. Unique shapes and materials add visual interest and charm.
Natural by Lifestyle Brands Handpainted Blue/Yellow/Black Ceramic Cabinet Knobs, 12 Pack | $60.99
2. Paint your dream decor: If new hardware isn’t in your budget, consider revitalizing your existing knobs and pulls with spray paint. SICO Paints’ Perma-Flex line can bring new life to fabrics, accessories, and outdoor furniture, drying quickly without running or dripping.
SICO Perma-Flex Spray Paint for Exterior Fabric, 340g | $24.99
3. Imagine new uses for peel-and-stick tiles: Beyond walls, use these tiles on furniture surfaces or stair risers for a stylish makeover. Try building your own pedestal or coffee table, or create smaller projects like tile trays or coasters.
Smart Tiles Vintage Roma Peel and Stick Tiles 9-in x 9-in Grey, Pack of 4 | $29.99
4. Accent with peel-and-stick wallpaper: Cover an accent wall, use it as a backsplash, or revitalize furniture and bookshelves. Trending designs include faux bricks, leafy greenery, gold dots, Mediterranean motifs, and geometric shapes.
RoomMates Dots Gold Peel and Stick Wallpaper, 28.2 sq. ft. | $49.99
5. Get rid of clutter: Decluttering freshens up a space and can improve your mood. Invest in decorative shelving, baskets, bins, and storage ottomans to keep items organized and out of sight.
VASAGLE Rustic Brown Metal 5-Shelf Ladder Bookcase. $159.99
6. Throw in pillows: Update a room affordably with throw pillows that add color, pattern, and texture. Choose pillows that complement or contrast with your existing color scheme and mix different textures and shapes for added depth.
Gouchee Home Ida 18-in x 18-in Square Grey Decorative Pillow, $43.99
7. Transform rooms with rugs: Rugs can elevate a space without major changes. Select colors and patterns that complement your decor, and experiment with layering for added dimension and warmth.
Korhani Melgund Area Rug – Beige/Grey/Yellow, 6-ft 7 x 8-ft 9 | $329.99
8. Set the mood with mirrors: Mirrors brighten your space and make rooms appear larger. Place them opposite windows or light sources to maximize light reflection. Decorative frames or grouped smaller mirrors can serve as stunning accent pieces.
Columbia Frame 40-in L x 30-in W Rectangular Black Framed Wall Mounted Mirror, $109.99
