50 Ideas for Elevating Readymade Home Items on a Budget
You read the title right… I’m sharing 50(!) ideas for elevating readymade home items in today’s blog post. These tips are especially helpful if you’re on a budget. You can easily make everyday or readymade items look more customized, high-end, and designerly by making simple changes and styling adjustments. I’m keeping this post quick, thanks to my looming camper renovation that we have to finish before we roll out- but consider this post a BIG brainstorming list of money saving ways to get creative, while making design modifications at home. Click through to check out my ideas and tips!
I’m diving right in with my list, friends! Happy reading and brainstorming…
- Add trim or banding to readymade drapery panels.
- Install a ceiling medallion with a budget-friendly light fixture to elevate the aesthetic.
- Swap the hardware on furniture or cabinetry.
- Add a marble or stone top to a dresser, table, or console.
- Paint over inexpensive (mass produced) framed artwork for a more original look.
- Switch inexpensive pillow inserts for down or a down alternative option.
- Drop your plastic potted plant into a basket you already have.
- Replace the readymade vanity countertop with a stone you actually love.
- If a large area rug isn’t in your budget, layer a smaller one over a neutral sisal or jute rug.
- Switch or paint your vent covers.
- Turn a bookcase into a built-in by adding additional trim pieces.
- Get creative with paint- update furniture, try contrast trim, or even color blocking.
- Swap your light switch plates- you could even add a dimmer for added functionality.
- Add additional fill to crushed or slouchy cushions (think fixing droopy sofa cushions).
- Dye your curtains for an updated or monochromatic look.
- Even if you don’t have a fireplace (or functioning one), install a faux option or mantel for architectural interest.
- Decant your basic dish soap or hand soap.
- Line and hem your curtains for a more customized and functional look.
- Install heavy solid brass hardware to add weight to a hollow core door.
- Think of produce as decor- display fresh fruits or veggies in a bowl on the counter or island for a splash of color & texture.
- Frame excess, leftover, or remnant fabric or wallpaper as art.
- Elevate your toilet by swapping the seat or lever.
- Install floating shelves and paint them the same color as your walls (for an integrated look).
- Upgrade light fixtures by changing the finish, swapping the shade, and changing the bulbs to a nice temperature.
- Replace dated kitchen countertops with a budget friendly classic material like butcher block.
- Hang everyday items on the wall that double as decor- cutting boards, baskets, hats, etc.
- Add a skirt to a table for added softness, pattern, color, and texture- or simply to switch things up.
- Pleat simple curtain panels or use ring clips for a more customized look.
- Use cord conduit to hide sconce or gallery fixture cords that aren’t hardwired.
- Install under cabinet strip lighting for a higher end look.
- Use organizers, bins, & matching hangers to make a standard closet more functional & beautiful.
- Install slipcovers to breathe new life into old upholstery.
- Opt for budget-friendly beadboard in place of a tile backsplash.
- Trade out your plumbing fixtures- and don’t be afraid to mix metals.
- No millwork? Use paint to create a similar look with color blocking where trim would be installed.
- Switch bedding seasonally for a fresh look- be sure to layer and make your bed each day.
- Reuse readymade frames for original art or vintage prints.
- Don’t be afraid to paint your brick for a new look (fireplace, architectural wall, exterior, etc).
- Add monochromatic bolsters or contrast trim to a bench, daybed, or sofa for a designer look.
- Use long drapery panels in place of a shower curtain.
- Add drawer organizers to chests, dressers, cabinets, and drawers, so everything has a designated place.
- Enhance your curb appeal- add additional door hardware (kick plate, door knocker, etc), planters, doormat, and house numbers.
- Reupholster seat cushions or headboards for a new look.
- No outlet nearby? Use a rechargeable bulb or puck light on a remote for any light fixture.
- Style a mirror to brighten a room that doesn’t get as much natural light.
- Use leftover wallpaper to line drawers or install it on the back of built-ins or shelving.
- Low art budget? Install a timeless gallery wall with thrifted pieces rather than splurging on one oversized piece to fill a wall.
- Recycle burned candles and use the vessels for countertop organization, planters, or styling objects.
- Working with a boring cabinet? Add glass for a curio look. Cut the center panel and install vintage, reeded, or seeded glass.
- Deep clean and declutter- it instantly elevates your home and mood!
Phew! I know that was a long list- I hope it helped to spark some ideas and get your wheels turning. The photos throughout this post were from a Tuesday Made shoot a couple weeks ago… I had way too much fun moving those hyacinths around my kitchen. Such a summery vibe!
I’m headed back outside to get to work on the camper renovation– we’ll be pushing it to get everything completed, but I’m hopeful we’ll finish before it’s time to roll out. It’s looking SO good. I can’t wait to show you (probably in a week or two here on the blog)! What other home ideas should I add to this list? I hope everyone is having a good week so far.