If you’re seeking to revamp or reinvent one or more areas of your home, prepare to shell out big bucks – unless, of course, you apply savvy homeowner principles, fiscal discipline, and creatively efficient approaches that can accomplish at least some if not most of your goals for a redesigned space.
Yes, it’s possible to pay a lot less for a home improvement project and still achieve impressive results, provided you keep your expectations in check and are willing to make some sacrifices.
“Redesigning on a tight budget is possible. The key is to be creative and resourceful with the resources available,” says Brad Smith, an interior designer and creative director with OmniHomeIdeas.com. “This may, for example, involve repurposing existing furniture, incorporating affordable decor pieces, and focusing on smaller updates that can make a big impact.”
Your first goal is to prioritize your budget. Determine your most important design elements and rank them accordingly.
“For instance, if you need a new sofa but don’t have the budget for a high-end one, consider purchasing a budget-friendly option and then adding some throw pillows or a throw blanket to make it more comfortable and visually appealing,” suggests Julio Arco, an architect and interior designer with Bark and Chase.
Arco’s recipe for success on a shoestring is fairly simple: DIY as much as you can to save money, including doing the prep/demolition, painting and decor-affixing yourself; shop secondhand whenever possible from thrift stores, consignment shops and online marketplaces like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace; use color strategically, such as implementing a bold color on an accent wall or incorporating pops of color with decor items to add interest in personality; and focus on smaller details.
“Case in point – adding new curtains, swapping out light fixtures, or updating drawer and cabinet hardware can refresh a room without a major investment,” he says.
Let’s say you want to reinvent a bedroom. A few simple tweaks can make a big difference without putting you into serious debt, says Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Chicago-based Improovy.
“By replacing the curtains, investing in a new rug, painting one wall to feature as an accent wall, and then shopping secondhand for new furniture pieces, you might be able to redesign your bedroom for less than $500,” Kazimierski says.
Redesigning a bathroom for less can be done by focusing on small updates that can yield a noticeable impact.
“Start by replacing dated fixtures and hardware, such as faucets and towel bars, with more modern options,” recommends Smith. “Consider painting the walls and updating the lighting for a fresh look. Add some new decor pieces like towels and a shower curtain. Your total cost could be less than $350.”
If a refreshed kitchen is on your radar, employ resourceful strategies.
“Use scrap and thrifted wood to create floating shelves for upper cabinets. You can also DIY your pendant lights using inexpensive baskets,” suggests Amber Shay, national vice president of Design Centers at Meritage Homes. “Mix and match cabinet hardware, use drifted furniture to create a custom hutch to serve as a pantry or coffee bar, and create a high-end looking vent hood to act as the focal point of the whole kitchen by using painted trim or drywall that can be made to look like metal or plaster with easy-to-create paint finishes.”
Prepare to make concessions to afford your redesign, the experts agree.
“Your options for materials and finishes will likely be limited. This could mean choosing less expensive flooring, countertops, or cabinetry options,” Arco cautions. “You might need to forgo some customization options by, for example, choosing premade furniture instead of custom-built pieces. Expect to spend more of your free time doing DIY projects. And prepare to prioritize your needs over your wants.”
Ultimately, focus on the potential of the living space instead of the limitations of your budget.
“With a little inventiveness and strategic planning, you can redesign your space to reflect your tastes and meet your needs without blowing all your savings,” Smith adds.