Home renovations are likely on many of our to-do lists – but in reality, who’s got the time…or the money?
Yes, in an ideal world, you’d be able to afford that home renovation that you’ve been dreaming about for years. But, the truth is that full-scale renovations are incredibly costly and even minor updates can get expensive quickly, making them not very feasible for the average joe. So, what do you do when you’re looking to spruce your home up on a tight budget?
The good news here is that some small and budget-friendly adjustments can go a long way toward making your home more liveable. Whether you’re looking to boost comfort, maximise space, or create a more inviting atmosphere, these simple and affordable design hacks will be sure to do the trick.
1. Layer Your Window Coverings for Style & Function
Natural light plays a huge role in setting the mood of any room, but finding the right balance between brightness and privacy can be tricky. This is where layering your window treatment can work wonders.
For example, instead of sticking to a single type of covering, consider mixing sheer curtains with more opaque options. This allows you to control light levels throughout the day while adding texture and depth to your decor.
This is effectively why double roller blinds are becoming more popular amongst Aussie homeowners. These versatile window coverings combine a sheer sunscreen layer with a blockout layer, allowing you to filter soft daylight or darken the room completely when you’re ready to watch a movie or go to bed. They not only look sleek and modern and support privacy, but they also help with insulation too — keeping your home cooler during summer days and warmer on winter nights. Yes, you can consider double blinds to be an investment in your home’s passive cooling and energy efficiency as well.
Plus, layered window coverings are an easy DIY install, making them a low-cost yet high-impact design choice. Whether you’re installing roller blinds, layered curtains, or a combo of curtains and blinds that’s perfect for your home.
2. Use Mirrors to Create the Illusion of Space
If your home feels a bit cramped, mirrors can work wonders. They bounce light around the room and make even the smallest spaces feel bigger and airier as a result. But the trick is to place them strategically. For example, a large mirror hung across from a window magnifies natural light, while one hung behind a piece of furniture adds a sense of depth to the space.
For an even more stylish approach, try a gallery-style mirror wall with different shapes and frames. This creates a unique focal point while maintaining an open, expansive feel across all your interiors.
And if purchasing brand new mirrors isn’t an option due to budget, you can always source second-hand or vintage options at local thrift stores or on online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace. You can use your second-hand purchases as is, or even upcycle them with a coat of paint if you’re looking for something that will match your interior design seamlessly.
3. Switch Up Your Lighting for Instant Ambience
Lighting has the power to radically change a space, but it’s often overlooked by many homeowners. The key is layering different light sources to create warmth and depth. Overhead lighting on its own tends to be harsh on the eyes, so be sure to mix it up with table lamps, floor lamps or even wall sconces that bring in softness and a cosy feel.
If you need a fast and cheap update, replace your old bulbs with some warm LED ones. Smart bulbs are another game-changer — they let you adjust brightness and even change colours via an app, helping you set the mood for any occasion. As an added bonus, you can even use your phone to turn the lights on before you get home. It’s pretty cool. So, focus on lighting because a soft, warm glow makes a home feel instantly more inviting without requiring any major renovations.
4. Embrace Multi-Functional Furniture
Furniture that serves multiple purposes is a lifesaver, especially in smaller homes. Think storage ottomans, extendable dining tables, and sofa beds. These pieces help you maximise your space without skimping on style or comfort. One of the best investments? A bed frame that comes with drawers or a gas lift storage section. It provides extra storage without taking up additional floor space, perfect for keeping clutter at bay. Whether it’s your bulky suitcases, extra bedding, or even just bits and bobs that don’t have a proper home in your space, storage beds are a lifesaver when it comes to keeping your home looking pristine with minimal effort.
Another simple hack is using nesting tables instead of a bulky coffee table — they can be stacked together when not in use, making them both practical and aesthetically pleasing. But don’t stop there — check out more ideas on how multipurpose furniture items can transform your space here.
5. Refresh Your Walls Without Paint
A fresh coat of paint is great, but if you’re renting or just don’t feel like dealing with the hassle, there are other ways to breathe new life into your walls. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great option that introduces character but without the commitment of traditional wallpaper. The best part is you can find all sorts of colours, designs and patterns to suit every taste. There are thousands to choose from, whether minimalist textures or bold prints that make a statement.
Wall decals and peel-and-stick stick murals are another fun way to refresh your space. They’re budget-friendly and easy to install as well as to remove when you want to change it up. For an even simpler update, try adding floating shelves to showcase artwork, plants, or stylish decor pieces that reflect your personality.
6. Incorporate More Textiles for Comfort & Warmth
Soft furnishings are an underrated way to boost liveability. Rugs, throw blankets, and cushions add instant cosiness and can completely change the feel of a room. If you’re working with a neutral colour palette, adding pops of colour through textiles is an easy way to refresh your space without overwhelming it.
Layering different textures — such as a chunky knit throw on a linen couch, or a woven area rug on hardwood floors — creates a more inviting and visually interesting look. Bonus: swapping out textiles seasonally is an affordable way to keep your decor feeling fresh and up to date. It’s a great way to keep your space feeling on trend, without having to make huge permanent investments.
7. Declutter & Organise with Stylish Storage Solutions
Lastly, liveability is not only about aesthetics. Homes designed with functionality in mind are also going to be more liveable by nature. A good way to build foundations for functionality in your home is simply by investing in storage.
A cluttered home is stressful and chaotic, so investing in good storage solutions will make a world of difference. The key is to choose storage that blends seamlessly with your decor rather than feeling purely utilitarian.
Baskets, decorative boxes and modular shelving units keep things tidy without sacrificing style. Hooks and wall-mounted racks are another excellent solution to declutter the floors but keep daily essentials close at hand. If you want to up the ante, consider the “one in, one out” rule: For every new item you bring in, donate or discard something you no longer want to keep. This way, you not only ensure your home looks organised and clutter-free, but you also
Wrapping it Up
Making your home more liveable doesn’t require a massive budget or extensive renovations. Whether it’s layering your window treatments with double roller blinds, embracing multi-functional furniture, or simply decluttering with smart storage solutions, there are countless ways to enhance your space affordably.
So if your home is in need of a refresh, start with these easy hacks. You’ll be amazed at the difference they’ll make — both aesthetically and in day-to-day comfort. With these tips, you’ll find that designing your dream home is actually far more accessible a pursuit than expected.
Partner Content
The above article is paid content, and any information presented should be independently verified before making any decisions as a result of the content. This article does not constitute advice of any kind, nor does it represent the opinions of the website publisher.