10 Home Improvement Ideas Under $50

So much of what I usually share is big, messy overhauls of a space. But if you are not doing a full gut job with demo and renovation, there are small changes you can make in your space that can have a big impact.

For these recommendations, my perspective is on just one room. Although you can set a budget and limit costs, home improvement takes money. That said, I highly recommend working on one space at a time. By focusing on just one space, you limit costs and really narrow down on what you need. What you like one day for the living room may not fit what you like later on when that is your room of focus. Also, wouldn't you love to have a clean and finished space to escape to while your other spaces are "under construction?"

Free yourself of the pressure to have everything done at once. If you want to go that route, just PAY someone else to do it.

Now that we have that understanding, let's go!

Plants - greenery! Adding plants to your space is a simple and cost-effective way to bring it to life. If you're buying live plants, make sure your room has the right lighting and space for them to flourish. Consider your environment (children and pets) and your ability to care for a plant as well. Some plants are easier to care for than others, so do your research! Plants can be placed on a shelf, bookcase, dresser, side table, and more. Have fun with the container to match it with your space and bring greenery to your area. Your local plant nursery will have options and can offer care tips. If live plants aren't for you, faux plants work too! Keep in mind that larger faux plants can be expensive, and any of these options will require more dusting than live plants.

Pillows are an excellent choice if you need to add a splash of color or texture. They can transform any space, whether it's the living room, dining room, bedroom, or entryway. It's best to opt for pillow inserts and slipcovers, as they offer styling flexibility and are easy to clean when necessary. The possibilities are limitless. A helpful tip is to purchase a pillow insert one size larger than the slipcover to achieve a fuller and more plush appearance.

Artwork - Hang something on those blank walls to transform your space into a reflection of your personality and style. The best part about incorporating artwork into your home decor is the vast array of options available; you can find or create pieces that resonate with your aesthetic and emotional preferences, ensuring that every piece tells a story. Inexpensive framed art is a fantastic choice for those looking to enhance their walls without breaking the bank. Many online platforms and local galleries offer stunning prints that can be easily framed to elevate their appearance. Additionally, printable artwork has gained popularity in recent years, allowing you to purchase digital files that can be printed at home or through a professional service. This option not only provides flexibility in size and format but also allows you to change your decor frequently without significant investment. Furthermore, DIY art presents a wonderful opportunity for self-expression and creativity. Whether you choose to purchase inexpensive framed art, opt for printable artwork, or embark on a DIY project, the key is to select pieces that resonate with you and harmonize with your overall decor. Each artwork has the potential to enhance the ambiance of a room, spark conversation, and create a welcoming atmosphere that reflects your unique taste and style.

USB-C Outlets- One of my favorite investments in my home is USB-C outlets. The flexibility of being able to charge devices with just a cord is so convenient. Those pesky charging blocks always get lost and being able to just plug my cord in is such a relief. Who knew that charging devices with a C-port would be as popular as it is today? I recommend adding them in a bedroom, lounge space, movie room. Pretty much anywhere where you tend to sit around and chill.

Wall art, more dynamic than traditional framed art, transforms blank walls into captivating focal points and sparks conversation. It offers diverse styles, materials, and techniques, enriching visual experiences and enhancing a room's aesthetic. Wall art introduces vibrant colors and textures, adding space depth and energy. Beyond decoration, some pieces offer functionality with integrated storage or lighting elements, blending art with practicality and ambiance. When choosing wall art, align it with your style and existing decor for a harmonious look, expressing individuality and turning your space into a personal reflection.

Paint is the simplest method to transform the atmosphere of a room entirely. You can opt to color drench the entire space by painting the ceilings, walls, and trim in a single color. Alternatively, you can make an accent wall with a bold or neutral shade that stands out. If there's a piece of furniture you can't part with, consider giving it a fresh coat of paint. The main cost of these projects lies in the preparation, but a gallon or quart of high-quality paint can make a significant difference.

Window Treatments Windows are the eyes of a room, providing natural light and views outside. Like eyes, they influence a room's ambiance and aesthetic. Window treatments, akin to lashes and eyeshadow, enhance windows' style and functionality, offering privacy and light control. While prices for blinds, shades, and curtains vary, high-quality options can be found at reasonable prices. You can find stunning curtains that elevate any room, whether you prefer sheer curtains for gentle sunlight or heavier drapery for warmth and elegance. The right treatments can transform a room's atmosphere, creating cozy retreats, chic modern looks, or playful vibes. By choosing complementary colors, patterns, and textures, you can make your windows the focal point of your décor. Explore the choices available to enhance your home with stylish, budget-friendly window treatments..

Wallpaper is one of my favorite accents for transforming a room. Whether using peel and stick or paste, wallpaper is a DIY-friendly option for beginners. Get creative by lining the drawers of an old piece of furniture, creating an accent wall, or adding a touch to the ceiling. You can even use wallpaper as wall art by adding trim. Various affordable options are available at most retail stores, both online and in-person.

Thrifting- Repurposed items can become your new treasures, ready to be transformed into something uniquely yours. Thrifting offers a world of possibilities, from charming knickknacks and decor pieces to textiles and large furniture that tell a story. Local thrift stores and organizations like Salvation Army Restores provide a wide range of items, including clothing, household goods, and vintage finds, making them ideal for adding personality to your home while supporting charitable causes.

In my experience, I've discovered stylish items like planter pots, accent chairs, and materials for DIY projects at my local rehab store, all at a fraction of their original cost. This encourages creativity and sustainable practices by reducing waste and promoting recycling. Each piece can be a canvas for your imagination, whether repainting a chair, turning a suitcase into a side table, or updating a frame. Thrifting is about the stories items carry and the new life you can give them. Next time you want to spruce up your home, explore the potential of repurposed treasures in your local thrift stores.

Each of these items contributes uniquely to the overall ambiance and functionality of your living space, including plants that add greenery, pillows that provide comfort and texture, and artwork that personalizes your space. Additionally, modern conveniences like USB-C outlets blend functionality with design, while wall art and paint transform the mood of a room. Window treatments and wallpaper add privacy and pattern, respectively, and thrifting promotes unique and sustainable decorating options. Now that I've reviewed several items that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, what are you ready to add to your space?